Protect your faith by guarding your tongue
“If you're not going to speak to benefit yourself and your akhira, then don't speak.”
The khutbah argues that Muslims should protect themselves from the dangers of the tongue by limiting speech to what is necessary and beneficial, using silence to preserve faith, accountability, and closeness to Allah.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Continues a Ramadan lesson on the dangers of the tongue and the virtue of silence.
- Revisits leaving matters that do not concern us and pausing before speaking.
- Defines Fadulul Kalam as irrelevant speech and excessive discussion of necessary matters.
- Uses predecessors, Quran, hadith, and Imam Ghazali to distinguish beneficial speech.
- Concludes by urging listeners to restrict speech to necessity and seek Allah’s help.
- Briefly announces a need for volunteers in the after-school maktab program.
In the khateeb's words
“If you can get to the point that you are getting to in your speech, then get to the point and leave the rest and leave the rest.”
“if you're not going to speak to benefit yourself and your akhira, then don't speak”
For the dinner table
The khateeb continued a lesson about guarding the tongue, especially by staying silent when speech is unnecessary. He explained that excessive speech includes talking about matters that do not concern us and talking too much about matters that do. Before speaking, we should pause and ask whether our words are necessary or beneficial; otherwise, we should let the matter go. Speech is worthwhile when it encourages charity or good, stops wrongdoing, helps reconcile people, or serves a real need. He closed by asking Allah for the ability to practice this and briefly invited volunteers for the after-school maktab.
- What is one kind of unnecessary talk you could reduce this week?
- How can our words help someone or repair a relationship?
- When is staying quiet the wiser choice?
More on Character & conduct
The strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.10:16Masjid Al-Noor · Waterloo, IA · Oct 31, 2026Control anger before it causes harm
Peer pressure is an issue that is just as applicable to adults as it is to children.5:08The Rayyan Center · Plymouth, MI · Oct 31, 2026Adults must choose their influences
Lowering your gaze is cleaner to your heart and fulfilling the amanah that Allah gave you.1:03:23Rahma Center · Lake Forest, CA · Oct 30, 2026Every trust from Allah must be honored