2:09 do not expect to be a…20:12 The hard thing is to…22:36 Taking revenge is an…24:13 As a Muslim, as a…
Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Dec 6, 2025.

Mercy and self-control show Islam's strength

Pullman Islamic Center

“The hard thing is to control yourself.”

The khateeb, at 20:12

Watch the khutbahFamily kit
In one sentence

Muslims should follow the Prophet’s example of mercy, self-control, and thoughtful forgiveness toward enemies while upholding justice and representing Islam through excellent character.

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. The story of Awad al-Mas'ud illustrates that Muslim life includes tests and opposition.
  2. The Prophet knew of hypocrites plotting against him but refrained from killing them, considering communal consequences.
  3. Examples from the Prophet’s life show mercy toward hostile, abusive, and harmful people without dwelling on past wounds.
  4. A Seattle mosque incident after 9/11 demonstrates forgiveness and restraint as powerful forms of da'wah.
  5. Mercy must not be confused with weakness; Muslims should uphold justice and invite others through their conduct.
Try this week
Expect tests and opposition as part of Muslim life.
Think about how personal actions may reflect on Muslims generally.
Control your speech when insulted and avoid answering vulgarity with vulgarity.
When someone seeks a fresh start, avoid reopening old wounds.
Use everyday character and conduct as a form of da'wah.
Show mercy without abandoning justice or necessary protection.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“do not expect to be a Muslim and you will have a path paved with roses. And people will be welcoming you and hugging you and saying, oh, you're Muslim, that's beautiful.”
Pullman Islamic Center · Pullman, WA
Play from 2:09
“The hard thing is to control yourself. You say, I'm a Muslim. I can't speak language like that. That is not me.”
Pullman Islamic Center · Pullman, WA
Play from 20:12
“Taking revenge is an easy thing. The hard thing is to overcome all of your feelings of taking revenge, of showing your power, controlling all of that.”
Pullman Islamic Center · Pullman, WA
Play from 22:36
“As a Muslim, as a minority, living in the majority of non-Muslims, we have to set a higher level of example in our character.”
Pullman Islamic Center · Pullman, WA
Play from 24:13
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah reminds us that being Muslim does not mean life will always be easy or welcoming. It points to the Prophet Muhammad’s way of responding to enemies and insults with mercy, patience, and self-control, while still recognizing the need for justice. We should not reopen old wounds when someone sincerely starts fresh, and we should guard our tongues from answering ugliness with ugliness. As Muslims living among people of many faiths, our everyday character can invite others to Islam more powerfully than words alone. The goal is to be compassionate without being weak and thoughtful about how our actions represent the wider Muslim community.

  1. When is it hardest to control your words?
  2. How can forgiveness be strong rather than weak?
  3. What is one way to show Islam through kindness this week?
Where it was given

The masjid

Pullman Islamic Center, Masjid Al-Farooq1155 NE Stadium Way, Pullman, WA 99163Jumu'ah Khutbah 1:00 PM · Jumuah 1:30 PMArchiveAll khutbahs at Pullman Islamic Center17 khutbahs
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