In a heartfelt and powerful Hajj Khutba delivered at Masjid al-Haram, Sheikh Dr. Maher bin Hamad bin Muhammad bin Muaiqly called on Muslims worldwide to foster a spirit of mutual cooperation and assistance. Addressing nearly 2 million pilgrims gathered at the plains of Arafat, he emphasized the importance of unity, respect, and piety among the faithful.
Key Messages from the Hajj Khutba
1. Foster Mutual Cooperation: Sheikh Muaiqly urged Muslims to maintain a spirit of mutual cooperation and assistance. He emphasized that one group should not mock another and that offensive nicknames should avoided.
2. Avoid Injustice and Immorality: He warned that those who commit injustices will held accountable, and those who harm believers will not prosper. He highlighted that immoral acts, such as alcohol consumption and gambling, are satanic deeds that must avoided.
3. Remembering the Palestinians: The plight of Palestinians was a significant focus of the Khutba. Sheikh Muaiqly urged the Muslim Ummah to keep the Palestinians in their prayers, stating that the enemy has made life difficult for them by blocking essential goods, food, and medicines.
4. Uphold Trust and Rights: Islam, he said, forbids the betrayal of trust and the unjust seizure of others’ property. He called on Muslims to protect themselves from Satan’s deceptions and uphold the rights of others, maintaining justice and fairness in all dealings.
5. Embrace Taqwa: The importance of Taqwa (God-consciousness) was a central theme. Sheikh Muaiqly reminded the pilgrims that those who adopt Taqwa will receive sustenance from unexpected sources, have their sins forgiven, and rewarded generously by Allah.
The Hajj Experience
During the Hajj, millions of Muslims listened to the sermon and followed the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by offering shortened Zuhr and Asr prayers with one Adhan and two Iqamas. Before Maghrib, the pilgrims departed for Muzdalifah, where they spent the night under the open sky, gathering pebbles for the stoning ritual at Jamarat.
On Sunday morning, the pilgrims performed the stoning ritual, sacrificed animals, and shaved their heads, exiting the state of Ihram. The day spent in earnest prayers on the Mount of Mercy (Jabal ar-Rahmah), with the atmosphere filled with their supplications and praises.
Unity and Piety: The Path to Success
Sheikh Muaiqly’s Khutba emphasized that worship is solely for Allah, who created all and is the sole authority over all matters. He reminded the faithful to fear the Day of Judgment and to uphold their prayers, as they prevent immorality and wrongdoing. Trusting in Allah, he said, leads to success in both this world and the Hereafter.
In conclusion, the Hajj Khutba 2024 was a call to unity, respect, and piety. It urged Muslims to cooperate, avoid injustices, remember the oppressed, and uphold the rights of others. By embracing these principles, the faithful can hope to achieve success and salvation, both in this life and the Hereafter.
