Modesty grows through faith and example
“It is our Akhlaq which tells them what Haya is.”
Haya, or modesty and moral restraint, should be cultivated as a living branch of faith through conduct, worship, parenting, good company, and seeking Allah’s help.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- Sets the goal of maintaining haya before Allah, people, and oneself.
- Warns that contemporary barriers are stripping away haya and urges families to teach children.
- Emphasizes role-modeling haya through character, Quranic reflection, hadith, seerah, divine attributes, and good company.
- Connects haya with maintaining salah and rejecting self-justifying attitudes attributed to Shaytan.
- Prays for deceased community members, suffering people worldwide, and closes with center announcements.
In the khateeb's words
“Sometimes haya is used as an excuse for not doing good deeds in front of others. Even though the act is highly recommended.”
“Most importantly, be a role model. Be a role model. It is our Akhlaq. It is our Akhlaq which tells them what Haya is.”
For the dinner table
Today’s khutbah reminded us that haya belongs in our actions, our relationships, and our conduct toward Allah, other people, and ourselves. The khateeb warned that we should not use haya as an excuse to avoid doing good deeds in front of others. He encouraged us to teach children through our own character and daily example. He also urged us to spend time with the Quran, learn about the Prophet’s life and Allah’s names, and stay connected to salah. We can keep reminding one another and asking Allah to help us grow in haya and good character.
- What good deed might feel embarrassing to do around others, and what would help you do it?
- What is one action you could use to set a good example this week?
- How could we help each other make time for prayer?
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