Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Apr 10, 2026.

Humility begins with dependence on Allah

“The true test of tawadu' is humility in times of superiority.”

The khateeb, at 11:49

In one sentence

True humility comes from recognizing our dependence on Allah and should shape worship, relationships, knowledge, success, and everyday conduct.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Defines humility as recognizing dependence on Allah, not merely avoiding showiness.
  2. Shows how the five pillars cultivate humility through submission, prostration, charity, fasting, and Hajj.
  3. Warns against arrogance in worship and emphasizes humility toward people with less power or visible righteousness.
  4. Uses Luqman's advice to teach attentive listening, modest behavior, moderate walking, and gentle speech.
  5. Addresses intellectual pride by encouraging learners to say “I don't know” and remain teachable.
  6. Concludes that humility brings honor and eternal reward, followed by a brief masjid renovation appeal.
Try this week
Submit sincerely to Allah in worship and remember dependence on Him.
Give charity without feeling superior; view recipients as helping provide purification.
Avoid judging people for public sins or assuming superiority over those struggling with faith.
Give people full attention, walk modestly, and lower your voice.
After receiving blessings, respond with gratitude rather than boasting.
Say “I don't know” or “Allahu 'alam” and learn from people regardless of age or status.
Speak kindly, walk lightly, and contribute to the masjid renovation if able.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 31Teaches humility through respectful attention, modest walking, and lowered speech.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“our poverty is not just financial It is in our existence as well We are needy for every breath, every heartbeat and every moment of guidance”
AMS Dearborn · Dearborn, MI
Play from 7:42
“the true test of tawadu' is humility in times of superiority When you find yourself in a position of power”
AMS Dearborn · Dearborn, MI
Play from 11:49
“Blessings are the ultimate traps for the ego When success comes whether it's a promotion or an increase of wealth”
AMS Dearborn · Dearborn, MI
Play from 15:04
“The more you learn, the more you realize how little you actually know And just from that realization, you show more humility”
AMS Dearborn · Dearborn, MI
Play from 17:32
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Humility begins by remembering that every breath, blessing, and ability comes from Allah. It should shape prayer, charity, fasting, Hajj, how we treat people with less power, and how we speak. The khutbah warns that worship, success, and knowledge can all become sources of pride if they make us look down on others. A humble person listens, says “I don’t know” when needed, thanks Allah for blessings, and chooses kindness over showing off. Allah promises lasting honor to those who leave status-seeking and arrogance behind.

  1. How can we show humility when nobody can reward or punish us?
  2. What is one blessing we can thank Allah for without becoming boastful?
  3. When was it difficult to say “I don't know,” and what happened when you did?