11:09 the strongest amongst…14:23 Have I done something…15:01 Anytime you say no to…
Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Jan 9, 2026.

Self-control protects you from sin

ICLI

“The strongest amongst you is the one who can control themselves at the time of rage and anger.”

The khateeb, at 11:09

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In one sentence

During the sacred month of Rajab, Muslims should prepare for Ramadan by treating boundaries as protection and practicing personal accountability and self-control rather than normalizing sin.

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. Introduces Rajab as one of the four sacred months, citing Qur'an 9:36.
  2. Frames the khutbah around boundaries, accountability, and self-control.
  3. Explains avoiding self-wrong through disobedience, injustice, and normalizing haram.
  4. Presents Islamic boundaries as protection and urges caution around doubtful matters.
  5. Applies self-control to speech, anger, private desires, wealth, and temptation.
Try this week
Strengthen personal boundaries around sin and doubtful matters.
Ask yourself every night whether you did anything you would be ashamed to present before Allah.
Lower your gaze when alone and control your tongue when angry.
Monitor speech, typing, and online writing, especially during anger.
Stay engaged with the masajid as Ramadan approaches.
Attend the substance-use workshop tomorrow at 6:30 p.m.; it is for ages 13 and above.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 9Used to establish twelve months, four sacred months, and the prohibition against wronging oneself in them.
Sunan Abi DawudUsed to distinguish clear halal, clear haram, and doubtful matters.
Sahih al-BukhariUsed to define strength as controlling oneself during anger.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“the strongest amongst you is not the one that can overpower others, but the strongest amongst you is the one who can control themselves at the time of rage and anger.”
ICLI · Westbury, NY
Play from 11:09
“Have I done something today that I will be ashamed to present in front of Allah on the day of Qiyam?”
ICLI · Westbury, NY
Play from 14:23
“Anytime you say no to a wrong, you say yes to dignity and honor.”
ICLI · Westbury, NY
Play from 15:01
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khateeb reminded us that Rajab is one of Islam’s four sacred months and an opportunity to prepare for Ramadan. He asked us to focus on three things: boundaries, accountability, and self-control. He explained that boundaries protect our faith, and that growing closer to Allah sometimes means leaving harmful habits behind. He encouraged us to look honestly at our own choices and take care with our words, our anger at home, and our actions when no one else is watching. Before bed, we can reflect on our day and think about what we need to improve. Choosing to leave a wrong action for Allah’s sake, he reminded us, brings dignity and sweetness to our faith.

  1. What is one boundary that helps protect something important to you?
  2. What could help you pause before speaking or typing when you feel angry?
  3. What could you ask yourself before bed to help you make better choices tomorrow?
Where it was given

The masjid

Islamic Center of Long Island835 Brush Hollow Rd, Westbury, NY 11590ArchiveAll khutbahs at ICLI48 khutbahs
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