Repentance & taqwaFrom the masjid's own video, Oct 10, 2026.
Lowering the gaze protects against zina
“Don't even get close to zina.”
In one sentence
The khutbah argues that the Cornell sexual-assault case reflects a broader culture of alcohol, pornography, and unchecked sexualization, and that Islam protects people by preventing the path to zina through lowering the gaze, respectful boundaries, family guidance, marriage, and help-seeking.
The khutbah in 4 steps
- Connects the Cornell case to a wider culture of sexualization, pornography, and alcohol.
- Uses Surah al-Tin to contrast humanity’s honored nature with moral degradation.
- Explains zina, alcohol, and lowering the gaze as interconnected safeguards.
- Urges parents to discuss phones, online content, boundaries, respect, and marriage with children.
Try this week
Talk openly with children about phones, online content, boundaries, and respect.
Practice lowering the gaze and avoid situations that lead toward zina.
Learn and teach mutual respect between men and women, while encouraging marriage.
Seek confidential help from an imam or qualified professional for porn addiction.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“Khamr actually means something that covers something else. Khamr means something that covers your brain.”
“Because the more we keep the gaze going, the more we're flicking at things we don't see, the darker the heart is getting.”
“If people have this problem, porn addiction, in particular, go seek help. Go seek professional help. Maybe the imam of the masjid can help. Maybe you need professional help.”
Where it was given
The masjids
Muslim Association of Puget Sound, Redmond17550 NE 67th Ct, Redmond, WA 98052Jumu'ah 1:15 PM first prayer · 2:15 PM second prayer · 3:50 PM youth prayerMAPS Seattle2100 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121Jumu'ah First prayer 12:15 PM · second prayer 1:15 PMKhateebAlaa BadrMore khutbahsArchiveAll khutbahs at MAPS Redmond20 khutbahs
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