Speak up and stand with the oppressed
“At least don't join the side of the oppressor.”
The khutbah argues that believers should use whatever voice and influence they have to stand with the oppressed, refuse to excuse or join oppression, and support Gaza through principled speech, solidarity, and giving.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Opens with taqwa and frames Gaza's ongoing suffering as a matter Muslims must continue to care about.
- Uses the Qur'anic account of Pharaoh and Musa to show how oppressors portray themselves as protectors while smearing the oppressed.
- Highlights the unnamed believing man from Pharaoh's people as proof that ordinary people should speak up even when outcomes seem unchanged.
- Explains the hadith about supporting one's brother by stopping an oppressor rather than assisting wrongdoing.
- Rebukes silence, victim-blaming, and siding with oppressors while urging encouragement for Palestinians and all oppressed people.
- Closes by calling listeners to refuse oppression, give and speak for Gaza, and pray for relief and justice.
In the khateeb's words
“These people of Gaza have persisted and have persevered and have been patient and it is through that patient by the will of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala that they've changed millions of minds all over the world”
“if he's an oppressor you stop him from his oppression and thereby you are still supporting him by protecting him from the hellfire”
“what do we leave with if we can say nothing at all at least don't join the side of the oppressor”
For the dinner table
Today's khutbah urged us to keep caring about the people of Gaza and described how they draw strength and patience from the Quran. The khateeb shared the story of a believing man from Fir'aun's people who spoke up for Musa even though he could not stop Fir'aun. He reminded us that ordinary people have something to offer and that Allah values sincere effort even when we cannot see a change in the outcome. He also explained that helping someone who is doing wrong means stopping them from hurting others. As a family, we can use our words and abilities to stand for justice, encourage people who are suffering, and pray for peace and relief.
- What is one way you could help someone being treated unfairly at school or among friends?
- When have you tried to do the right thing even though you weren't sure it would make a difference?
- How could you help a friend stop hurting someone's feelings while still showing that you care about them?
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