2:30 But the Prophet…26:33 in the true shura a…
Community & unityFrom the masjid's own video, Sep 3, 2025.

Why leaders should consult before deciding

ISGW

“In the true shura a difference of opinion is referred to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and His Prophet.”

The khateeb, at 26:33

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In one sentence

The khutbah argues that prophetic leadership combines principled obedience with critical understanding, mercy, inclusion, and shura, in which leaders consult people before making responsible decisions.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Distinguishes the Prophet's unique authority from obedience to later leaders and rejects blind following.
  2. Uses examples about refusing immoral commands and returning to grieving parents to show that obedience requires judgment and mercy.
  3. Explains how the Prophet forgave former enemies, recognized their abilities, and gave them meaningful responsibilities.
  4. Presents Qur'an 3:159 and prophetic practice as foundations for forgiving people, consulting them, and then making a firm decision.
  5. Describes shura as inclusive participation that welcomes disagreement, strengthens dignity, and draws out overlooked ideas.
  6. Contrasts shura with majority-rule democracy and party groupthink, then calls for community involvement, dua, and practical help during crisis.
Try this week
Seek to understand a leader's intention rather than following instructions blindly.
Invite overlooked people to share ideas, volunteer, and participate in community decisions.
Bring children to the masjid and pick them up on time.
Make dua for people facing war and serious illness, and help them through money or other practical means.
Refer disagreements to Allah and His Prophet rather than party loyalty or groupthink.
Sources the khateeb cited
Quran 3:159Used to connect gentleness, forgiveness, consultation, decisive leadership, and reliance on Allah.
Sunan Abi DawudUsed in the fire example to show that obedience cannot override moral judgment.
Sunan Abi DawudUsed in the story of the young man sent back to comfort his grieving parents.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“But the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam wanted his followers to understand that when they pledge allegiance to anybody after him, they have to have this thing in mind.”
ISGW · Worcester, MA
Play from 2:30
“in the true shura a difference of opinion is referred to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and His prophet”
ISGW · Worcester, MA
Play from 26:33
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah teaches that following the Prophet is not blind obedience, but thoughtful obedience rooted in understanding and faith. A good leader is gentle, forgives people, recognizes their abilities, and consults them. Shura means listening to different viewpoints and giving people dignity, while the leader remains responsible for the final decision. Families and communities should make room for ideas, involve children in masjid life, and care for commitments responsibly. The khutbah also urges prayer and practical help for people suffering in war and crisis.

  1. When is it helpful to ask someone else for advice?
  2. How can we make sure everyone in our family gets a chance to speak?
  3. What is one practical way our family can help someone this week?
Where it was given

The masjid

The Islamic Center of Greater Worcester57 Laurel St, Worcester, MA 01605Jumu'ah Khutbah 1:00 PM · Iqamah 1:30 PMArchiveAll khutbahs at ISGW49 khutbahs
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