Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Oct 17, 2026.
Taqwa should shape how we treat others
“If you can't say something good, don't add to the problem.”
In one sentence
Taqwa is not only worship but also excellent character, especially under pressure, so believers should leave Jumu'ah changed and practice kindness in public and at home.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Introduces a hadith linking taqwa and good character with Paradise, and harmful speech and illicit relations with Hellfire.
- Explains that taqwa must shape how people treat others, not only prayer, fasting, and charity.
- Uses mistreatment of mosque security as evidence that worship should make people better.
- Explains that character is tested under stress and condemns mockery, belittling, insults, and harmful gestures.
- Urges listeners to choose the best speech or remain silent.
- Calls listeners to thank volunteers and security staff and practice exceptional character at home.
Try this week
Say something good or remain silent when frustrated.
Thank and appreciate the Jumu'ah lunch volunteers.
Smile, thank, and ask security staff how they are doing.
Practice especially excellent character with parents and family at home.
Aim to leave Jumu'ah better than you arrived.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“The goal is that you're a better person after it”
“But when is good character difficult? Good character's difficult When you're put under pressure”
“If you can't say something good Don't add to the problem No, be quiet”
Talk about it at home
For the dinner table
Allah wants our taqwa to show up in beautiful character, not only in prayer, fasting, and charity. The real test is how we speak and act when we are rushed, stressed, hungry, or upset. We should avoid mocking, belittling, insulting, or using hurtful gestures, and speak well, or remain silent. After Jumu'ah, we can practice this by thanking volunteers and security workers and showing appreciation. We should carry the same excellence into our homes with our parents, spouses, children, and families.
- What is one kind thing we can say or do when our family is stressed?
- How can we show appreciation to the people who help our masjid?
- When is it hardest for you to keep good character, and what could help?
Keep listening
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