Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Oct 31, 2026.
Arrogance turns us away from God
In one sentence
The khutbah teaches that arrogance and ego make us heed Shaytan rather than God, so believers should reflect on Surah al-Kahf, test their thoughts against God's pleasure, and cultivate humility.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Introduces Surah al-Kahf as a Friday recitation that protects faith and encourages belief in the unseen.
- Explains that the angels’ prostration to Adam was obedience and honor to God, not worship of Adam.
- Describes Iblis as a jinn whose ego, desire, and anger led him to disobey God.
- Applies the story by teaching listeners to distinguish godly thoughts from satanic or ego-driven impulses.
- Cites Amir al-Mu'mineen on Iblis losing thousands of years of worship through a brief moment of arrogance.
- Calls listeners to control the ego, purify the heart, and practice humility.
Try this week
Recite Surah al-Kahf on Fridays with reflection on its meanings.
Before forming an opinion, deciding, speaking, or acting, consider whether it pleases Allah.
Examine inner thoughts to distinguish godly guidance from ego-driven or satanic whispers.
Control the ego, remove arrogance, and purify the heart.
Sources the khateeb cited
Quran 18:50Used to explain Iblis’s refusal to prostrate to Adam and the warning against treating Shaytan and his descendants as allies.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“Six thousand years of worship nullified. One moment or a short while of arrogance.”
“Arrogance in fact. Is one of the greatest diseases. That destroys us. And it's the cause of all conflicts.”
Talk about it at home
For the dinner table
The khateeb taught that Iblis failed because arrogance made him focus on himself instead of obeying Allah. We can face similar temptations when our pride, defensiveness, or assumptions guide our choices. Before we speak, act, or judge someone, we should ask whether what we are doing pleases Allah. By reflecting on Surah al-Kahf and practicing humility, we can protect our faith and purify our hearts.
- What helps you notice when pride is influencing your reaction?
- How can we pause and ask whether a choice pleases Allah?
- Where might humility prevent an argument this week?
Keep listening
More on Character & conduct
The strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.10:16Masjid Al-Noor · Waterloo, IA · Oct 31, 2026Control anger before it causes harm
Peer pressure is an issue that is just as applicable to adults as it is to children.5:08The Rayyan Center · Plymouth, MI · Oct 31, 2026Adults must choose their influences
Lowering your gaze is cleaner to your heart and fulfilling the amanah that Allah gave you.1:03:23Rahma Center · Lake Forest, CA · Oct 30, 2026Every trust from Allah must be honored