Agra: Delivering the Friday sermon at Nahar Wali Masjid, Sikandra, the mosque’s khateeb Muhammad Iqbal raised a thought-provoking question before the congregation: “Are we truly entering Islam wholeheartedly?”
Referring to Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 208, he recited:
“O you who believe! Enter into Islam completely, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is your clear enemy.”
Iqbal explained that this Qur’anic command was revealed because humans have been granted free will, and the misuse of this freedom can lead to serious harm. He stressed that Allah, being the Creator, knows human tendencies and therefore provides guidance for their own protection.
Concerns Over Marriage Practices
Highlighting social practices related to marriage, Muhammad Iqbal said:
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Islam encourages simplicity in Nikah.
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Extravagance and wastefulness have been condemned, and spendthrifts are described as “brothers of Satan.”
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Customs such as burdensome dowry, large wedding processions (baraat), and lavish feasts have no place in Islamic teachings.
He urged the community to evaluate their actions, refrain from un-Islamic practices, and prevent others from falling into them.
A Call for Self-Reflection
Warning the congregation, he said that persistent violation of Allah’s commands would leave people with no answer on the Day of Judgment.
Muhammad Iqbal emphasized the need to avoid following the footsteps of Satan and to realign one’s life according to the principles of the Qur’an.
