Use knowledge to serve others
“How will this education of mine benefit me and benefit others?”
Islam commands Muslims to pursue beneficial knowledge in every field, master their work with ihsan, and preserve their Islamic identity by using expertise to serve others.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- Frames the Quran’s first command, “Iqra,” as a call to education and lifelong learning.
- Distinguishes beneficial knowledge from non-beneficial knowledge rather than dividing knowledge into religious and worldly categories.
- Encourages science, professions, language learning, and broad education through examples from Islamic history and the companions.
- Presents three actions: never stop learning, pursue excellence, and preserve Islamic identity.
- Closes with prayers for knowledge, excellence, beneficial service, and steadfast Muslim identity.
In the khateeb's words
“The question we need to ask is that how will this education of mine benefit me and benefit others?”
“So in Islam, every education is encouraged. Every ilm, every type of knowledge is encouraged as long as it benefits the human being.”
“We may not be perfect, but we can always do better.”
“So preserve your identity, no matter what you achieve in this world, remain a strong Muslim.”
For the dinner table
Today's khutbah reminded us that learning is a lifelong part of being Muslim. The khateeb encouraged us to seek knowledge that benefits ourselves and others, including religious learning and skills such as medicine and engineering. He explained that learning languages can help us communicate and serve people, and that how we use our words matters. His three action items were to keep learning, strive for excellence, and preserve our Muslim identity through prayer, honesty, and good character. Through the story of Prophet Yusuf, he showed how knowledge and care for others can work together to protect a community.
- What did you learn this week that you could use to help someone?
- What is one thing you would like to get better at, and who could help you learn?
- What could you say or do tomorrow to show honesty and kindness at school?
The masjid
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