6:54 You don't get to name…15:32 It's never about…27:54 This is the kind of…
Seeking knowledgeFrom the masjid's own video, Dec 18, 2025.

Build knowledge instead of policing symbols

MakeSpace

“You don't get to name what you didn't build.”

The khateeb, at 6:54

Watch the khutbahFamily kit
In one sentence

Muslim renewal requires replacing symbolic policing and arrogance with knowledge-building, humility, compassion, and respectful service to humanity.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Uses an Afghanistan donut-sign incident to criticize policing symbols while neglecting larger communal problems.
  2. Argues that Muslim strength historically came from building knowledge, institutions, arts, sciences, and services.
  3. Calls for humility in dialogue, listening, common ground, and leaving conversion results to Allah.
  4. Warns against reducing Islam to exhaustive halal-and-haram rules, especially when teaching children or welcoming converts.
  5. Illustrates Prophetic patience and respect toward Utbah, whose hostility softened after hearing the Quran.
  6. Closes by urging compassionate representation of Islam and praying for people facing illness and hardship.
Try this week
Build knowledge, ethics, mercy, beauty, and useful institutions instead of policing symbols.
Begin conversations with common ground, listen humbly, and share Islam without obsessing over conversion results.
Speak kindly or remain silent, especially when lacking knowledge.
Teach children a broad, thoughtful picture of Islam rather than only long lists of prohibitions.
Make dua for people in the community and around the world facing illness, family problems, and hardship.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 3Used to support beginning religious conversations from a common word and shared ground.
Surah 17Used to affirm that Allah has honored all children of Adam, across religions and worldviews.
Surah 41Cited through the Prophet's recitation to Utbah as an example of patient, respectful engagement.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“You don't get to name What you didn't build. You just don't get to name what you did not invent.”
MakeSpace · Franconia, VA
Play from 6:54
“It's never about let's... get more converts. It's about sharing the message.”
MakeSpace · Franconia, VA
Play from 15:32
“This is the kind of transformation that compassion and empathy and respect can create even in your most avowed enemy.”
MakeSpace · Franconia, VA
Play from 27:54
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Imam Zia reminded us that our faith should inspire us to build useful things, learn, and serve people. He encouraged humility, because Allah knows all truth while each of us still has much to learn. When we talk with people of other beliefs, we can begin with what we share and treat everyone with the dignity Allah has given them. He warned that children need to experience Islam’s mercy, stories, and invitations to reflect, alongside learning right and wrong. Through the Prophet’s patient listening, he showed how respect and compassion can open hearts, while reminding us to leave the results to Allah.

  1. What part of learning about Islam fills you with curiosity or joy?
  2. How can you show someone you are listening when you disagree with them?
Where it was given

The masjid

MakeSpace6142 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310Jumu'ah 12:30 PM at MakeSpaceArchiveAll khutbahs at MakeSpace46 khutbahs
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