Sermon (Kutbah) in Islam
Definition
The term ‘Sermon’ in the context of Islam primarily refers to the oration delivered during the Friday midday prayer, known as the Khutbah (Arabic: خطبة, Turkish: Hutbe). This sermon is an integral part of the Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers and serves multiple functions: religious, social, and community-oriented.
Etymology
- Khutbah (Arabic: خطبة)
- Hutbe (Turkish: Hutbe)
The Khutbah
Purpose and Structure
The Khutbah is a formal speech that holds a significant place in Islamic traditions. Delivered from the Minbar (pulpit) of the mosque, the khutbah generally includes praise of Allah, an exhortation to moral conduct, guidance on religious duties, and reflections on societal issues. It is divided into two parts: the first part focuses on religio-spiritual themes, and the second on community and social welfare.
Delivery
Exhortations or sermons at any other time are termed waʿz̤ (Arabic: وعظ). While Khutbah is an established and mandatory practice in Islam, other sermons, although following the practice of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), are less common.
Setting
The Khutbah is traditionally delivered at the Masjid al-Jami’ (the principal mosque) on Fridays. Exceptionally, sermons delivered at other times are not common or obligatory but reflect the Prophet’s broader practice.
Islamic Law and Significance
- Fard-Kifaya: The Khutbah is a collective duty (Fard-Kifaya) for the Muslim community, especially the imam or chosen speaker.
- Jumu’ah Prayer: It is an essential element of the Jumu’ah prayer, failure of which invalidates the prayer.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Sermon: Its Role and Importance in Islam” by Al-Mawardi
- “Jumu’ah Khutbahs: A Collection of Sermons” by Muhammad Abduh
- “Friday Sermon: A Social and Religious Obligation” by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf
Takeaways
- Khutbah is a pivotal Islamic sermon uniquely linked with Friday prayers.
- Massively influential in religious teachings, social norms, and community welfare.
- While Friday khutbahs are mandatory, other sermons (waʿz̤) are valuable yet uncommon.
Conclusion
The Khutbah is more than a mere sermon; it is a cornerstone of Islamic practice that binds religious teachings with the community’s social framework. Understanding its role holistically engenders greater appreciation of its socio-religious significance.
