The worst among people are those who destroy their own nations, threaten peace and security, and wage war against their own communities, the Friday sermon delivered at the Islamic Centre in Male’ warned.
The sermon was delivered by Sheikh Dr Salah al Budair, Imam of the Prophet’s Mosque, Masjid al-Nabawi. Centred around the theme, ‘Be Loving Brothers to One Another’, the Imam issued a stark warning against those who sow discord and division within society.
The Imam condemned the actions of those who spread hatred, speak harshly, issue uninformed religious rulings, and act with injustice and immorality — asserting that such individuals cannot be the foundation of a united society.
Urging believers to embody love, compassion, and brotherhood in all actions permitted by Allah, the Imam emphasised the importance of helping one another in righteousness and piety, stressing that true unity stems from mercy, humility, and mutual respect.
Dr Al-Budair called on the faithful to be merciful to themselves and others. He reminded that Allah (SWT)’s mercy will be upon those who embody mercy and said they will be spared from the torment of the grave and the Hellfire.
“Teach from your knowledge to the ignorant, treat them with compassion. Give in charity for the poor. Respect elders and show kindness to children. Guide those who have gone astray. Be kind to animals. Know that those who are closest to Allah (SWT)’s Mercy are those who are merciful to His creations,” he advised.
Speaking on fulfilling others’ needs, the Imam emphasised the importance of helping others, noting that efforts to fulfill a need of another is more virtuous than staying in I’tikat at Masjid al Nabawi, the second holiest mosque in Islam.
“Do not withhold help, generosity and charity. Do not be stingy. Extend even a small act of kindness to those who seek your help, or respond to them kindly. Do not let your strictness and distaste lead you to turn away a person asking out of dire need,” he urged.
The Imam firmly advised against harming fellow Muslims through slander, lies, humiliation, cursing, or by hastily declaring others as disbelievers or sinners. He urged listeners to avoid uncovering people’s faults and to embrace a life of humility and prayer.
"How long will you ignore the one who reminds you? How long will you shut your ears to sincere advice? Has the time for humility not yet come? Is it not time to rise for Tahajjud? Are we asleep? Or have our hearts stopped beating? Brother — wake up from your deep slumber!," he said.
The sermon resonated deeply with the congregation, serving as a timely reminder of the values that strengthen both individual character and the collective soul of the Ummah.