Agra | Masjid Neharwali, Muhammad Iqbal, in today’s Friday Sermon, asked worshippers in a tone of concern that the nation that Allah Ta’ala taught to purify itself five times a day through ablution (wudu) and granted the privilege to stand in His presence through prayer (salah)—why is this nation now recognized for its filth? Visit Muslim neighborhoods, and all you will see is dirt and garbage everywhere. What is the reason for this? The truth is, we have stopped frequenting our mosques. Our mosques are empty, while our markets are bustling with activity. Muslim neighborhoods are alive throughout the night with activity. Restaurants are crowded. By the time it is time to wake up, our youth are preparing to sleep. Then they wake up by noon with no care for prayers. Has Allah only made Friday prayer obligatory? Who will account for the other prayers? Until our mosques are filled with worshippers and cleanliness becomes our identity, Allah’s help will not come to us. The current situation is in front of you. This will keep happening unless we change our ways. Change your identity. Care for cleanliness. Start a campaign in your areas. Take the initiative yourself. Raise your children with teachings of cleanliness and purity. Keep your homes and neighborhoods clean. This will beautify your environment. Who among Allah’s servants will decide today to take the lead in keeping their area clean and tidy? And remember, Allah Ta’ala has made five daily prayers obligatory along with Friday prayer. Fill your mosques with worshippers. If the mosques are alive, so will we as a community. May Allah grant us the ability to do this. Ameen.
Keep your areas clean, and society will become beautiful : Muhammad Iqbal
