Today Friday Sermon is on Brotherhood: The Keeper of Your Brother
~~ Mahmud Ashraf
Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
Today, as we gather on this Friday, a day of reflection and rejuvenation, let us delve into a profound concept central to Islam: the concept of brotherhood. The Quran and Sunnah, the teachings of Allah and His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasize this concept with utmost importance, highlighting our responsibility as brothers and sisters in faith to support, protect, and uplift one another.
The very word "brother" in this context transcends the biological connection. It encompasses the spiritual bond forged through shared faith, a covenant of mutual respect, understanding, and compassion. The Quran often uses the word *akh* (brother) to signify this close relationship, illustrating the deep commitment we must have towards each other. Consider the following verses:
"Indeed, the believers are brothers." (Al-Hujurat 49:10) This verse establishes the foundational principle. We are not just individuals; we are a community, a brotherhood, bound by a shared belief in Allah. This brotherhood is a source of strength and support. It’s not a passive agreement; it’s an active commitment.
"And hold fast, all together by the rope of Allah, and be not divided among yourselves. (Al-Imran 3:103) This verse reminds us that unity within the brotherhood is essential for our collective success and strength. Division weakens the community and opens it up to the pitfalls of discord and disharmony.
"And do good—indeed, Allah is, with those who do good." (Al-Baqarah 2:195) The Quran repeatedly emphasizes acts of kindness, support, and assistance toward fellow believers. We are commanded to be instruments of goodness in the lives of others, extending a helping hand to those in need.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) further illuminated this principle through numerous Hadiths. For example, he said:
"The believer is a shield to his brother." This powerful Hadith emphasizes the protective nature of brotherhood. We are to stand as a barrier against harm, shielding our fellow believers from hardship and injustice. It’s not just about words, but about tangible actions.
"The best of you are those who are best to their families." While this refers to families, the spirit of nurturing and support applies equally to our brothers and sisters in faith. Treating them with kindness and respect, offering guidance and support, is a reflection of our faith and an embodiment of the spirit of brotherhood.
Brothers and sisters, the message of the Quran and Sunnah on brotherhood is clear. It’s not a theoretical concept, but a practical imperative. It's about building a supportive community, where each member feels protected, nurtured, and encouraged on their journey towards Allah.
We are called to be the keepers of our brothers and sisters. This means:
Helping those in need: A brother in need is a brother in distress.
Forgiving and understanding: We must strive for forgiveness and compassion in our interactions.
Encouraging one another in good deeds: Inspiring each other towards righteousness.
Protecting the integrity of the community: Standing firm against discord and negativity.
Let us strive to embody these values in our daily lives, ensuring that our brotherhood remains a beacon of unity, kindness, and support, shining forth to all those around us. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to uphold this precious bond.
Ameen.
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