Worship helps us return to our original nature
“It's not a mistake that we're praying five times a day to try to return back to our original selves because during the day you are getting deformed.”
Prayer, Ramadan fasting, and daily Quran engagement help people return to their original Adamic nature, purify their hearts and passions, and realize their God-given potential for good.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- The speaker explains clay as human flesh and sensitivity, with the heart directing behavior.
- Prayer protects the moldable human spirit from corrupting worldly influences and restores its original nature.
- Ramadan fasting should be undertaken with sincere intention and preparation to receive the Quran.
- Daily Quran reading is encouraged, including dividing a portion across the day's prayers.
- Fire and jinn symbolize unchecked passions, and Quranic stories should prompt self-examination.
- Ramadan purifies the individual, while Hajj symbolizes communal development, followed by prayers for people facing hardship.
In the khateeb's words
“You want the influence of Allah to change you. You want the words of Allah and the life example of Prophet Muhammad to be influencing your spirit.”
“It's not a mistake that we're praying five times a day to try to return back to our original selves because during the day you are getting deformed.”
“So don't just focus on fasting. Make sure you're reading the Quran, the message, because that's the point.”
“It's about reaching your maximum potential. And that's the potential that Allah has given to everybody.”
For the dinner table
The khateeb reminded us that our hearts can be shaped by what we watch, hear, and love, much like soft clay. He described prayer as a way to return to our original innocence and turn back toward Allah throughout the day. With Ramadan approaching, he encouraged us to fast with the intention of pleasing Allah and to make room for the Quran’s message. He also asked us to look honestly at ourselves when reading the Quran, especially when pride or strong desires make it hard to accept guidance. His central message was that Ramadan can help us purify ourselves and reach our potential for good by putting Allah’s words into practice.
- What is one thing you watch or listen to that helps you become kinder or more thoughtful?
- How could we make a little time for the Quran together during Ramadan?
- When someone points out a mistake, what helps you listen and learn?
The masjid
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