Community & unityFrom the masjid's own video, Nov 28, 2025.
People with disabilities belong fully
“They are part of the community.”
In one sentence
Allah’s VIPs include people with disabilities, so Muslims must notice their struggles, include them fully, and prioritize compassionate, practical support.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Introduces Surah Abasa through the Prophet’s interaction with Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum.
- Explains that Allah redirected attention from powerful leaders to the blind man seeking guidance.
- Urges communities not to overlook accessibility, inclusion, or small immediate needs.
- Explains the need to avoid staring at people with disabilities and to respect their struggles.
- Highlights the effort people make when seeking help and encourages patience, attention, and assistance.
- Concludes that people with disabilities are known, important, and special members of the ummah.
Try this week
Ensure masjids, schools, restaurants, and community spaces are accessible.
Avoid staring or fixating on a person’s disability.
Give extra time and attention to people who seek help.
Apologize when you overlook someone or behave insensitively, then improve the relationship.
Identify a personal way to serve and include people with disabilities in the community.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 80Its opening verses recount the Prophet’s frown and redirect attention toward Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“It is the blind man that is the real VIP in front of Allah. It is the blind man, the person with a disability, is the real focus for Allah .”
“They are part of the community. They are just like me and you. They're no different except that they struggle.”
“Don't get so caught up with all the big issues of life at the cost of forgetting. the little things in your life.”
“I apologize for overlooking you, for not thinking about you. I apologize that my eyes got careless and I was staring at you.”
Talk about it at home
For the dinner table
The khutbah uses Surah Abasa to teach that people who are often overlooked may be especially important in Allah’s sight. People with disabilities are full members of the community and deserve dignity, access, attention, and friendship. We should not become so focused on large problems that we ignore someone nearby who needs food, help, or kindness. When we make a mistake, we should apologize and change our behavior. Each of us should find a practical way to make our community more welcoming and supportive.
- Who might be overlooked in our community, and how could we include them better?
- What is one small need we sometimes miss while focusing on bigger problems?
- How can we show respect when someone’s disability or circumstances are unfamiliar to us?
Keep listening
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