7:37 so seeking forgiveness…8:37 Allah created us…
Repentance & taqwaFrom the masjid's own video, Sep 19, 2025.

Daily istighfar brings relief and hope

ICNYU

“Seeking forgiveness is easy from Allah.”

The khateeb, at 7:37

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In one sentence

Consistent, sincere istighfar cleanses the soul, restores hope in Allah's mercy, and can bring forgiveness, relief, provision, and answered supplications.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. The opening recitations emphasize taqwa, truthful speech, obedience, and forgiveness.
  2. Everyday cleaning and detox analogies introduce istighfar and its meaning.
  3. Daily repentance is encouraged because people are forgetful and negligent, even during worship and after Hajj.
  4. Hassan al-Basri's counsel connects istighfar with relief from drought, poverty, and infertility through Surah Nuh.
  5. The story of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal and the baker illustrates istighfar and answered dua.
  6. The khutbah closes with practical daily habits, reflection, and communal encouragement.
Try this week
Say "Astaghfirullah" intentionally and consistently every day.
Use small moments such as walking, commuting, breaks, or before sleep for istighfar.
Spend a few minutes reflecting on the day's actions, shortcomings, and need for Allah's mercy.
Encourage friends or family to check in with one another about daily dhikr and istighfar.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 33Used to connect fearing Allah and speaking truthfully with righteous deeds and forgiveness.
Surah 8Used to explain that sincere return to Islam brings forgiveness for past sins.
Surah 4Used to support the command to seek forgiveness because Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.
Surah 71Used to connect istighfar with rain, wealth, children, gardens, and rivers.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“so seeking forgiveness is easy from Allah it is us that have to make the effort towards doing it and being consistent and mindful while doing that as well”
ICNYU · Greenwich Village, NY
Play from 7:37
“Allah created us flawed, weak and sinful and this is a part of our nature not something we should be shy about”
ICNYU · Greenwich Village, NY
Play from 8:37
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khateeb reminded us that our souls need regular care, just as our bodies and homes do. Istighfar means seeking Allah’s forgiveness, and even saying astaghfirullah can be part of that daily care when we say it thoughtfully and consistently. We all make mistakes, but we should intend to change and keep returning to Allah, even when we slip again. Through Quranic reminders and stories, the khutbah connected seeking forgiveness with relief, provision, and hope in Allah’s mercy. We can begin with a few quiet moments while walking or before bed, reflecting on our actions and gently encouraging one another.

  1. What does caring for your soul look like alongside brushing your teeth or cleaning your room?
  2. When you make the same mistake again, what helps you ask for forgiveness and try to do better?
  3. What everyday moment could you use to pause and say astaghfirullah thoughtfully?
Where it was given

The masjid

Islamic Center at NYU238 Thompson St, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10012ArchiveAll khutbahs at ICNYU22 khutbahs
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