11:02 the Chinese had it but…21:44 not all that is new is…22:39 will this for our…
Seeking knowledgeFrom the masjid's own video, Jul 11, 2026.

Muslims must engage ethically with AI

MCA

“AI presents a challenge that is unlike the previous technologies.”

The khateeb, at 21:44

Watch the khutbahFamily kit
In one sentence

Muslims today face a third civilizational crossroads with generative AI and must choose proactive, ethical engagement, like the adoption of paper in 751, rather than fearful hesitation, which turned the printing press in 1485 into a centuries-long gap.

The khutbah in 11 steps

  1. Opening khutbah formulas and praise of Allah
  2. Introduction of two pivotal dates in Muslim history: 751 and 1485
  3. The Quranic call to knowledge: the ummah of iqra and Surah al-Alaq
  4. Allah's subjugation of creation for reflection, not mere consumption
  5. 751: the Battle of Talas and the Muslim adoption and spread of papermaking
  6. 1485: the delayed entry of the printing press into Ottoman Muslim lands
  7. The consequences of embracing versus hesitating over transformative technology
  8. Prophetic precedent for adopting beneficial new tools: the silver seal and the trench
  9. The third moment: generative AI in the 2020s
  10. Ethical responsibility for families, technologists, and leaders
  11. Closing call to stewardship and dua
Try this week
Talk with children and young people at home about how they are using AI and for what purposes
Avoid turning to AI for unadvisable applications such as therapy or friendship
Technologists should pursue ethical, well-thought-out advancement rather than only halal profit
Policymakers and leaders should ensure AI development protects those who could be harmed
Connect with and contribute to community conversations such as the IKNA West convention
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 96First revelation: 'Iqra' establishes the ummah as a community of reading, knowledge, and learning.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“the Chinese had it but they treated it if you will like a state secret like a government secret for themselves the rest of the world was unaware”
MCA · Santa Clara, CA
Play from 11:02
“not all that is new is good not all that is glitters is golden but AI presents a challenge that is unlike the previous technologies”
MCA · Santa Clara, CA
Play from 21:44
“will this for our ummah be our paper making success or will it be our printing press failure when people write about this in years to come”
MCA · Santa Clara, CA
Play from 22:39
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah reminded us that Islam is deeply connected to learning, reflection, and beneficial knowledge. In 751, Muslims helped spread paper, which supported scholarship and benefited all of humanity. In 1485, hesitation about the printing press contributed to a gap that affected Muslims and others for centuries. The khateeb asked whether we will approach artificial intelligence with wisdom and ethical leadership. At home, we should discuss how to use AI responsibly, protect our families, and serve humanity through the abilities Allah has given us.

  1. What is one helpful way AI could support learning in our family?
  2. What is one danger we should watch for when people use AI?
  3. How can our family show good stewardship of technology?
Where it was given

The masjid

Muslim Community Association of the San Francisco Bay Area3003 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054Jumu'ah Jummah 1 12:15 PM · Jummah 2 1:30 PMArchiveAll khutbahs at MCA94 khutbahs
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