In one sentence

The remembrance of Allah (dhikr) is the easiest yet highest act of worship, the soul behind every other act of worship, and Muslims should keep Allah on their tongues and minds throughout daily life.

The khutbah in 8 steps

  1. Adhan and opening khutbah formulas
  2. Introduction: dhikr is the easiest, most noble, and animating act of worship
  3. Expanding the meaning of ibadah to every permissible deed done with a right intention
  4. Why Salah and Hajj were legislated: to establish the remembrance of Allah
  5. The many Quranic modes and fruits of dhikr
  6. Reflecting on creation and hardship, extreme heat as a sign pointing to Allah and the Hereafter
  7. The promise that Allah remembers those who remember Him
  8. Practical dhikr for every moment: waking, bathroom, mirror, eating, working, and leaving home
Try this week
Adopt morning and evening adhkar (adhkar al-sabah wa al-masa).
Begin waking, bathroom, mirror, eating, and leaving-home moments with their specific Prophetic remembrances.
Tie ordinary conversations and work, including business and earning, to the remembrance of Allah.
Use the experience of comfort and hardship as prompts to thank Allah and remember the Hereafter.
Thank Allah for cooling and shelter, pray for those without, and help them practically.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“Ibadah. Is more than that. Is bigger than that. Anything. That one will do. That pleases Allah. And He approve of it. Is an act of ibadah.”
Al Farooq · Calumet Heights, IL
Play from 8:43
“The remembrance of Allah. Constantly having Allah. In your mind. And on your tongue. That's the same very reason. Allah has legislated the salah.”
Al Farooq · Calumet Heights, IL
Play from 9:53
“Just something for a second. Like it won't take a long. Just one breath of hell. And SubhanAllah, we are catching hell on earth here.”
Al Farooq · Calumet Heights, IL
Play from 20:44
“So attached to your business. Your business to the zikr of Allah. It's just like the Imam. That is in a masjid praying. He is not any better than you while making that money.”
Al Farooq · Calumet Heights, IL
Play from 30:19
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah taught that dhikr, remembering Allah in the heart and on the tongue, is the spirit and purpose behind acts of worship. Ordinary responsibilities, such as working honestly and caring for family, can become ibadah when done to please Allah. We were encouraged to remember Allah throughout the day through familiar supplications and by connecting everyday activities to Him. Consistent remembrance brings success and helps us notice Allah’s signs in creation. Our blessings should lead us to gratitude, prayer, and practical care for people who lack cooling, housing, or other basic comforts.

  1. What is one moment tomorrow when you could remember Allah?
  2. How can a chore or responsibility become an act of worship?
  3. Which blessing in our home should make us more thankful or generous?