Wealth should serve Allah, not distract us
“The right question is what is the end and what is the means?”
The pursuit of more can distract us from our purpose, relationships, and potential, so wealth and achievement should serve Allah’s pleasure rather than become ends in themselves.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- Opens with a conference story about wealthy, status-conscious people and asks how much is enough.
- Explains Surah al-Takasur through distraction and three forms of excess: wanting, competing, and showing off.
- Describes what accumulation can distract us from, including personal potential, family obligations, and life’s purpose.
- Reframes worldly life as a bridge to the afterlife, with Allah’s pleasure as the goal and worldly resources as means.
- Connects the message to Muharram and Ashura, prayer, remembrance, and community education announcements.
In the khateeb's words
“How much is enough? That's not the right question. Actually, the right question is what is the end and what is the means?”
“Whatever we have been given in this world, whatever we are acquiring in this world. That should ultimately be used to get the pleasure of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.”
“Use that as a lens, use that as a north star, use that as a compass. Then we won't be stuck in al-haakum al-takasur, the want for plenty that has distracted us.”
For the dinner table
The khateeb asked us to think about our desire for more possessions, success, and recognition. He explained that wanting more, competing with others, and showing off can distract us from Allah, our families, and the abilities He has given us. He reminded us that our relationship with Allah matters throughout the day, not only when we pray or fast. Wealth, education, and leadership can be good things when we use them to help others and seek Allah’s pleasure. Like a bridge that takes us somewhere, this world gives us opportunities to prepare for the next life. As a family, we can make more time to listen to one another and think about how our everyday choices can please Allah.
- When you see something someone else has, what helps you appreciate what you already have?
- What talent could you use to help someone this week?
- What could we put aside to give each other more attention at home?
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