Seeking knowledgeFrom the masjid's own video, Dec 20, 2025.

Permissible does not always mean best

“Just because something is permissible, it doesn't mean it's always the best choice.”

The khateeb, at 20:34

In one sentence

Muslims should not casually declare things halal or haram without knowledge, but should understand Islam’s nuanced categories, seek qualified guidance, and lead with mercy and taqwa.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Opens with taqwa and warns against speaking about Allah and Islam without knowledge.
  2. Defines haram and critiques the habit of labeling ordinary choices as forbidden.
  3. Distinguishes what is permissible from what is advisable through family business and weapons-industry examples.
  4. Explains the five categories of fard, mandub, halal, makruh, and haram, including doubtful gray areas.
  5. Urges caution toward simplistic religious answers and teaches that Allah’s mercy should shape parenting and religious education.
  6. Concludes with congregational prayer and community announcements.
Try this week
Study the Qur'an, Sunnah, and scholarly tradition before declaring something halal or haram.
Seek context-sensitive guidance from qualified scholars rather than accepting instant religious labels.
Prioritize obligatory prayers and duties over otherwise permissible entertainment or activities.
Consider finding more peaceful employment when work contributes to mass killing or oppression.
Teach children Allah’s mercy while explaining religious obligations and prohibitions.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“So just because something is permissible, it doesn't mean it's always the best choice.”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 20:34
“If you hear haram from someone's mouth too much, cautious. Very cautious.”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 30:49
“And we have to teach our children that Allah is merciful first because His act of creation is mercy.”
ICC Tempe · Tempe, AZ
Play from 31:33
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah reminds us to be careful when speaking about Allah and Islam. Not everything is simply halal or haram; some matters require wisdom, context, and qualified scholarly guidance. Something permissible may still be unwise, while our obligatory duties and clear prohibitions remain important. As families, we should teach Islam with mercy and help children grow in faith without making them feel that everything around them is forbidden.

  1. What is one choice that may be allowed but still not be wise or kind?
  2. When should we pause before calling something haram?
  3. How can we show mercy when teaching younger siblings?