Youth & educationFrom the masjid's own video, Oct 10, 2026.

Young Muslims should research history for themselves

“You learn to think for yourself, research for yourself, and you look at independent resources.”

The khateeb, at 5:51

In one sentence

Muslim youth should develop independent historical understanding and a commitment to knowledge so they can recognize injustice and responsibly engage with Bilad al-Sham.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Opens with praise, a reminder to maintain taqwa, and a brief framing of the youth khutbah.
  2. Uses Zahran Mamdani’s October 7 speech to urge critical thinking, independent research, and awareness of historical context.
  3. Calls listeners to care about civilian suffering and justice for all people.
  4. Introduces Zayd ibn Thabit’s youth, literacy, languages, and role in preserving the Quran.
  5. Explains the virtues and history of Bilad al-Sham through the hadith “tuba li al-Sham.”
  6. Invites the congregation to attend upcoming talks about Bilad al-Sham before closing for prayer.
Try this week
Research historical events using independent and varied sources.
Learn about the history, geography, and virtues of Bilad al-Sham.
Attend the announced programs after Maghrib and after Dhuhr.
Pursue literacy, education, and knowledge as Zayd ibn Thabit did.
Sources the khateeb cited
Jami` at-TirmidhiUsed to highlight Zayd’s youth, literacy, Quranic scholarship, and role in collecting Quranic portions.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“you learn to think for yourself, research for yourself, and you look at independent resources, okay?”
Dar Al-Taqwa · Ellicott City, MD
Play from 5:51
“The reality may not be what you're exposed to in public school or simply what your teacher is telling you, right?”
Dar Al-Taqwa · Ellicott City, MD
Play from 7:14
“He focused on education. He focused on literacy. He focused on reading and writing, right?”
Dar Al-Taqwa · Ellicott City, MD
Play from 9:59
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khateeb reminded us to think carefully and learn from more than one source, especially when studying painful current events. He said justice should include concern for every innocent person who suffers. He shared how the young companion Zayd ibn Thabit turned toward literacy, education, and Quranic work. He also explained that Bilad al-Sham has deep religious and historical importance. The family was encouraged to learn more and attend the community programs about the region.

  1. What is one topic you would like to research using several trustworthy sources?
  2. How can studying history help us respond more wisely to suffering today?
  3. What would you want to learn about Bilad al-Sham at the community programs?