Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Jul 17, 2026.

Speak truth with wisdom and kindness

“The intent behind the communication is to get your message across in the best way possible.”

The khateeb, at 1:15

In one sentence

Muslims should communicate with truthful, beneficial, kind words by choosing the right time, place, tone, and conversational purpose, including when honest difficult conversations are needed.

The khutbah in 4 steps

  1. Introduces the Quranic command to speak upright words and frames communication as an everyday Islamic responsibility.
  2. Explains choosing beneficial content, timing, setting, brevity, and kind wording.
  3. Distinguishes practical, emotional, and difficult conversations, emphasizing empathy before advice.
  4. Applies communication principles to families, friendships, da'wah, and community well-being.
Try this week
Speak only when there is meaningful benefit.
Choose the right time and place for important messages.
Keep communication concise and use truthful, kind words.
Identify whether someone needs information, emotional support, or correction.
Handle sensitive matters privately or in person instead of relying on text.
Give honest feedback and accept sincere correction with forgiveness.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 31Shows Luqman advising his son through affection, sequence, and gentle correction.
Surah 20The Musa and Harun example illustrates closeness, accountability, and forgiveness.
Sahih al-BukhariExamples involving Abu Talha, Ka'b ibn Malik, Abu Bakr, Umar, and Aisha illustrate timing, empathy, and difficult conversations.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“you improve the outcomes and the intent behind the communication is to get your message across in the best way possible”
Masjid Al-Istiqama · Etobicoke, ON
Play from 1:15
“the best time to instruct him about the etiquette of eating because they're already eating this is munasif this is appropriate”
Masjid Al-Istiqama · Etobicoke, ON
Play from 4:51
“some people just want to tell you the bad news to complain to relieve their stress”
Masjid Al-Istiqama · Etobicoke, ON
Play from 10:46
“if you love someone you can tell them straight and this is from life”
Masjid Al-Istiqama · Etobicoke, ON
Play from 16:17
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Allah teaches us to speak truthful, clear, kind words and to think about the best time and place for what we say. The khutbah reminded us that not every conversation needs advice; sometimes a person needs empathy, patience, and support. When a difficult conversation is necessary, we should address it honestly, privately, and gently, as the Prophet and his companions modeled. Better communication can strengthen families and friendships, reduce stress, and help us correct one another with love.

  1. How can we tell when someone wants comfort instead of advice?
  2. What makes a difficult conversation feel respectful?
  3. What kind words could make our family communication better this week?