Community & unityFrom the masjid's own video, Apr 4, 2026.

Muslims must stand together across divisions

“A true believer in la ilaha illallah muhammadur rasulullah will defend that Muslim brother.”

The khateeb, at 30:02

In one sentence

Muslims should preserve unity across sectarian, national, and political divisions, resist manipulation by powerful actors, and defend one another while leaving ultimate theological judgment to Allah.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Affirms Sunni-Shia brotherhood through the shared testimony of faith despite theological disagreements.
  2. Recalls Gulf War, Iraq, and post-9/11 divisions as examples of Muslims being fractured by political narratives.
  3. Warns that foreign powers and regional governments prioritize strategic and economic interests over ordinary Muslims.
  4. Uses a hadith about wisdom and Quranic teaching on one ummah to call for solidarity.
  5. Urges the mosque community to protect and defend Muslims regardless of sect, nationality, or background.
  6. Closes with prayers for oppressed communities, congregational prayer, announcements, and a new convert’s shahada.
Try this week
Unite around the shahada despite sectarian, national, or ethnic differences.
Resist political messages that encourage Muslims to turn against one another.
Defend and protect fellow Muslims without first asking about their sect, nationality, or background.
Help make the mosque safe and welcoming for every Muslim, including someone who is attacked.
Maintain salah and seek good company in the mosque and community.
Sources the khateeb cited
Jami` at-TirmidhiUsed to argue that wisdom is the believer’s rightful property wherever it is found.
Surah 23Used to emphasize that Muslims are one ummah and that division is condemned.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“It is wise for us right now. To take heed individually and as a community. Not to divide ourselves amongst sectarian lines. Nor national boundaries.”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 15:01
“a true believer in la ilaha illallah muhammadur rasulullah will defend that muslim brother and not only ask any questions but he will defend his honor and defend his dignity”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 30:02
“we come here together on faith on Iman in La Ilaha Illa Allah Muhammadur Rasulullah and we come following his Sunnah with Allah so we don't fracture and we don't break”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 90:21
“Allah will tell you if you were righteous enough Allah will tell you if your interpretation was correct”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 96:57
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Today’s khutbah reminded us that Muslims may have different schools, backgrounds, and nationalities, but we share the testimony of faith. The speaker warned that powerful people can use those differences to turn neighbors against one another while innocent people suffer. He encouraged us to seek wisdom, leave ultimate judgments to Allah, and protect one another without first asking about sect or country. Our mosque should be a place where every Muslim feels safe and welcome. This week, we can strengthen that unity through salah, good company, and standing up for someone who needs our help.

  1. What is one kind action that could help someone at our mosque feel safe and included?
  2. How can we disagree about an idea without dividing from the person?
  3. What does good company look like in your week?