Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Sep 3, 2025.
Speak truth despite fear and pressure
“She speaks the truth and she defends the honor.”
In one sentence
Believers should follow Asma bint Abi Bakr’s example by speaking truth to tyrannical power despite fear, worldly risks, or overwhelming odds, while trusting Allah.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- The Hijrah narrative introduces Asma bint Abi Bakr’s courage in resisting Abu Jahl.
- Asma’s later counsel to Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr emphasizes remaining firm rather than surrendering principle for worldly safety.
- After Ibn al-Zubayr’s death, Asma confronts Hajjaj ibn Yusuf and condemns his worldly victory at the expense of the Hereafter.
- The speaker connects these examples to the hadith about the best jihad being a truthful word before a tyrant.
- Listeners are urged to speak publicly against oppression despite concerns about employment, reputation, or social visibility.
- The khutbah closes with prayers for Palestine, justice, guidance, and steadfastness.
Try this week
Speak truthfully and publicly against oppression through responsible protest, social media, or other visible support.
Do not let fear of losing employment, reputation, or livelihood completely silence principled action.
Trust Allah as the provider and sustainer while choosing truthful, courageous conduct.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“And Asmaat binti Ibi Bakr doesn't care who is in front of her. And she speaks the truth and she defends the honor.”
“You were able to take away his dunya at the expense of your akhira. Like you sold everything that you ever could have had in the akhira for the sake of Ibn Zubayr's dunya.”
“Our true words in face of tyrants is just a drop compared to the ocean that was exemplified by our brothers and sisters across the world.”
Talk about it at home
For the dinner table
Today’s khutbah told the story of Asma bint Abi Bakr, who stood firm before powerful oppressors when she was young and again when she was elderly. Her example teaches that believers should not trade truth and principle for worldly safety or approval. The khateeb connected this courage to oppression today, including the suffering of people in Palestine, and urged listeners not to let fear silence them. We can ask how to stand for justice with courage, wisdom, and trust in Allah.
- When is it hardest to tell the truth, and what can help us do it kindly?
- How can we support people facing oppression without acting carelessly or putting others in danger?
- What is one small, truthful way our family could stand for justice this week?
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