Taqwa should guide every action
“If we're worried about the state of our new shoes, what about the state of our souls in every action that we take?”
Taqwa, careful, ongoing mindfulness of Allah, should guide every action, honest self-assessment, resistance to sin, solidarity with the oppressed, and preparation to die as a Muslim.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Introduces taqwa as the foundation for tranquility and spiritual improvement.
- Applies taqwa to personal trials, Palestine and Gaza, honor, sincerity, and hope for relief.
- Defines taqwa through Abu Hurairah’s thorny-path analogy and the example of protecting new shoes.
- Urges listeners to renew intentions before good deeds and pause before committing sins.
- Emphasizes self-assessment according to personal capacity, repentance, and not delaying worship.
- Closes with prayers for Palestine, the deceased, forgiveness, and a faithful death.
In the khateeb's words
“That is taqwa, that carefulness in every step that you take.”
“And if we're worried about the state of our new shoes, what about the state of our souls in every action that we take?”
“Before committing a sin, ask yourself, "Is this sin worth it?" "Is it worth it for me to backbite at this moment?"”
“Then thank Allah that He gave you life until that moment to realize that. And once again, you begin anew.”
For the dinner table
The khateeb reminded us that our hearts find rest in remembering Allah. He explained taqwa as being careful with our choices, like avoiding thorns on a path or protecting a new pair of shoes. That care includes checking why we do good deeds and pausing before we hurt someone through gossip or other sins. He encouraged us to assess our own strengths and struggles, keep improving, and speak up against injustice while praying for those suffering in Palestine and Gaza. Since none of us knows how long we have, we should turn to Allah now: begin again after mistakes, thank Him for the good He helps us do, and ask Him to keep us faithful.
- What is one choice tomorrow where you could care for your heart as carefully as a favorite pair of shoes?
- What could help you do something kind for Allah without needing anyone to notice?
- What would you like to thank Allah for this week, and what would you like to work on?
More on Repentance & taqwa
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