Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Oct 24, 2026.

Use your words to protect others

“Make sure that your children feel safe.”

The khateeb, at 21:50

In one sentence

The khutbah argues that Muslims should use speech, and the character behind it, with intentionality, compassion, courage, and service, following the Prophet Muhammad's example to protect relationships and oppose oppression.

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. Introduces words and the tongue as powerful forces that can transform people and societies, citing Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali.
  2. Explains his attentive nonverbal manners and the lesson of Surah Abasa against judging people by status.
  3. Teaches concise, intentional speech that combines gentleness, strength, humor, and protection from humiliation.
  4. Applies these principles to children, spouses, family trust, and preserving relationships.
  5. Calls Muslims to speak against oppression and use their personal strengths to serve the ummah locally and globally.
Try this week
Use words intentionally rather than speaking excessively or without purpose.
Give people full attention by turning toward them and listening attentively.
Avoid judging people by appearance, wealth, disability, or social status.
Make children and spouses feel safe, supported, and protected from public humiliation.
Resolve ordinary marital disagreements privately and seek help in cases involving abuse or serious harm.
Speak against oppression and use personal strengths to serve Muslims and the wider community.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 80Used to show that the Prophet was corrected for turning away from a blind seeker and that people must not be judged by status.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“Words are the silent movers of humanity. Words have created nations and destroyed empires.”
At-Thohir · Koreatown, CA
Play from 4:02
“He would give them all of his attention, all of his love.”
At-Thohir · Koreatown, CA
Play from 9:47
“Make sure that your children feel safe, they can come to you when something happens.”
At-Thohir · Koreatown, CA
Play from 21:50
“You have to do something either here wherever you can and whatever way you can. What's your strength? Use it for the ummah.”
At-Thohir · Koreatown, CA
Play from 26:54