Friday sermon on the blessing of security and a warning against rumors, under the guidance of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs
His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdul Aziz Al Sheikh, issued an important directive to the Eminences of the preachers of mosques in various regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stipulating that the sermon of next Friday, corresponding to 17/9/1447 AH, be dedicated to addressing a vital topic that concerns the stability and safety of society, which is talking about “the blessing of security and tranquility” and warning against the dangers of rumors.
The obligation to be grateful for blessings and to preserve gains
The ministerial directive emphasized the need for preachers to remind worshippers of the obligation to thank God Almighty for the blessings of security, stability, and prosperity bestowed upon the Kingdom. These are great blessings that necessitate gratitude to ensure their continuation and increase, in accordance with the Almighty's words: "If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]." This reminder comes within the context of strengthening religious awareness among members of society, fostering an appreciation for the value of the nation and the achievements attained thanks to God and the efforts of the wise leadership.
Warning against rumors and engaging in discord
The directive emphasized a crucial point concerning the handling of information and news. His Excellency instructed preachers to warn people against the dangers of spreading and circulating rumors in gatherings or on social media platforms. The directive called for verifying news and avoiding hasty dissemination, citing the Prophetic Hadith: "It is enough of a lie for a person to narrate everything he hears." It further indicated that engaging in discussions about events and crises without knowledge or understanding, and sharing videos that incite anxiety, constitutes spreading discord, which is forbidden in Islamic law, due to its negative impact on public tranquility and unity.
The role of the pulpit in promoting security and community awareness
In a related context, this directive reflects the pivotal role played by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in guiding mosques to serve major societal issues. The mosque in the Kingdom is not merely a place of worship, but a platform for guidance, instruction, and strengthening national unity. Unifying the sermon topic enhances collective awareness of the gravity of the current situation and thwarts those who seek to sow discord or incite panic among citizens and residents by exaggerating events or fabricating lies.
The Islamic approach to dealing with crises
The directive included a statement of the established Islamic approach to dealing with new developments, which is to refer matters to those in authority, scholars, and relevant bodies, and to refrain from engaging in matters that do not concern one, in compliance with divine and prophetic guidance. This approach serves as a safeguard for societies, ensuring that information is obtained from official and reliable sources, and protecting the public from confusion and being swayed by inaccurate analyses that could harm the country's higher interests.
Prayers for the leadership and the brave soldiers
The directive concluded by urging preachers and worshippers to supplicate frequently for the success and guidance of the rulers, and for God to protect the Kingdom and perpetuate its glory and strength. The directive also specifically included prayers for our valiant soldiers stationed on the borders, asking God to grant them steadfastness, victory, and accuracy in their aim, in recognition of their immense sacrifices in defending the homeland and its sacred sites, and so that the Kingdom may remain an oasis of security and safety under its wise leadership.
