Muharram should lead to real reform
“If we did achieve some reform, we arrived in a part of the spiritual journey.”
The true journey of Muharram and Arbaeen is not physical participation but spiritual nearness to Imam Hussain and Allah, demonstrated through reform, taqwa, generosity, and care for others.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Opens with Surat al-Fajr’s image of spiritual return and frames Muharram and Safar as a journey.
- Distinguishes physical participation in Karbala rites from spiritual arrival through nearness to Imam Hussain and Allah.
- Defines arrival through reform, courage, generosity, and freedom from ego.
- Presents taqwa as the journey’s provision, guiding words, actions, and difficult choices toward Allah’s pleasure.
- Explains return as growing concern for companions, enemies, neighbors, and the wider community.
- Closes by urging continued spiritual striving, inclusion, and helping no one be left behind.
In the khateeb's words
“The ability to make it physically and on its own is not the real journey.”
“Generosity is a sign of courage, shaja'a, because the opposite of it is fear.”
“If we did achieve some reform, we arrived in a part of the spiritual journey. If not, we need to reassess and restart the journey.”
“We hold everyone's hand. We care more for the people. We care more for the community.”
For the dinner table
The khateeb asked us to reflect on how remembering Imam Hussain has changed our hearts, beyond simply attending gatherings or visiting Karbala. He explained that the purpose of this journey is to grow nearer to Allah through reflection and becoming more like Imam Hussain in our character. One sign of that growth is generosity: having the courage to give despite our fears. Taqwa helps us keep going by guiding our intentions, words, and choices toward what pleases Allah. As we grow, our hearts should become more open to others, caring for our community and neighbors regardless of their race or ethnicity. This journey continues beyond Muharram and Safar, and we can keep reassessing ourselves and taking steps forward.
- What is one way you could practice courage through generosity this week?
- Before speaking when you are upset, what could help you choose words that please Allah?
- Who outside your usual circle could you help feel included, and how?
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