Help others before judging their behavior
“Whoever asked you for help, don't consider his behavior with Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.”
Respectful celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s and Imam al-Sadiq’s births is Islamically valid, and their example calls believers to learn, help others, and embody excellent character.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- Announces the upcoming celebration and notes differing dates and customs among Muslims.
- Defends respectful commemoration by distinguishing fixed sharia rules from changeable aspects of daily life.
- Uses Qur'anic examples to support love, remembrance, grief, and celebration connected to the Prophet and Ahlul Bayt.
- Shares Imam al-Sadiq’s assistance to al-Shaqrani, emphasizing help before admonishment and beginning with positive counsel.
- Urges Shi'a believers to practice exemplary conduct, then closes with prayers, event notices, and a donation appeal.
In the khateeb's words
“And all of these celebrations come through from al-Qur'an al-Karim and the sunnah of our amma sallam allahi alaihim.”
“But, the rule of the life, it is changeable. And this change, it has to happen. Otherwise, the life cannot continue.”
“Whoever asked you for help, don't consider his behavior with Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala. Maybe he is better than you with his relationship with Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.”
For the dinner table
The speaker taught that Muslims may celebrate the Prophet Muhammad's and Imam al-Sadiq's births when the celebration is respectful and centered on remembering their lives and teachings. He distinguished fixed acts of worship from changeable parts of daily life, saying Islam does not require people to copy every historical custom. Through Imam al-Sadiq's kindness to a man with bad habits, he urged us to help people without judging them, then advise them gently and begin with good deeds. He also reminded Shi'a believers that their connection to the Prophet's family should inspire especially good character, prayer for those in need, and participation in the community.
- When is it better to help someone first and give advice afterward?
- What is one good deed you can do this week because of your love for the Prophet?
- How can our family show respect for the Prophet and Ahlul Bayt through our behavior?
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