Truth and justice can extinguish war
“We're against the war because we're following God's principles and we want the safety for our country and the safety for the people in the region.”
Because war is fueled by false narratives and profiteering, Muslims in America should use truth-telling, civic engagement, bridge-building, and justice advocacy to extinguish war’s flames.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Opens with Quran recitation from Surah al-Nahl and the standard khutbah praise and testimony.
- Frames wars involving Iran, Gaza, Lebanon, and elsewhere as human-made violence that listeners must help extinguish.
- Critiques war lobbying, fear-based narratives, and the distinction between governments, peoples, and religious communities.
- Uses Quranic principles and Eisenhower’s warning to challenge military-industrial profiteering and defend anti-war concern.
- Recasts peace work as a responsibility and opportunity for American Muslims committed to safety and justice.
- Urges listeners to speak truth, engage civic life, build bridges, advocate for justice, and support peace efforts.
In the khateeb's words
“And I don't look upon that as a burden. I look upon that as an opportunity that Allah is providing for us at this time, at this place, for our people, for our country, and for the world.”
“No, we're against the war because we're following God's principles and we want the safety for our country and the safety for the people in the region. We are not anti-American.”
“We should build bridges, number four, with all groups who share these principles, Christian, Jewish, or any group for that matter. And we should advocate for justice.”
For the dinner table
Br. Salam Al-Marayati called on Muslims to be peacemakers, using the image of people bringing extinguishers to a fire. He urged listeners to care about people suffering in war and to use whatever abilities Allah has given them to help. He encouraged speaking truth even when it is difficult, taking part in community life, and building bridges with people of other faiths. He also described practical ways to support good work, including attending, giving money, or praying when other forms of help are out of reach. He ended by asking Allah to strengthen young Muslims as they grow in faith and contribute to society.
- What could you do to calm a disagreement instead of making it worse?
- When is telling the truth difficult, and who could help you find the courage?
- What is one way our family could serve others alongside people of another faith?
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