Central Khutbah: “The Mosque in Light of the Principles of the Community of Madinah”
When we speak about a “true community,” we are not referring to perfect people or to an ideal society free from weaknesses. Rather, we are speaking about a community that moves forward with a clear direction and well-defined principles. We are speaking about believers who, despite their shortcomings, strive to make their mosque and community as close as possible to the model of the first Muslim community established in Madinah under the leadership of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.
The community of Madinah was not free from challenges. It included the Muhājirūn (the Emigrants) and the Anṣār (the Helpers), the wealthy and the poor, the young and the elderly, those with strong faith as well as those whose faith was still growing. Its strength did not lie in perfection, but in its constant return to Divine Revelation and in its sense of accountability before Allah. This remains the foundation of every serious Muslim community, in every time and place.
A Community Built upon Faith and Knowledge
The community of Madinah was founded upon knowledge. The Qur’an was its living guidance, and the Prophet ﷺ was its practical embodiment and explanation. Knowledge was not a luxury; it was essential for the survival and growth of the community.
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“The best of you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it to others.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, no. 5027).
This hadith establishes a clear hierarchy of values. The best people are not those who possess the greatest influence or wealth, but those who are deeply connected to the Qur’an and dedicate themselves to teaching it.
Today, this means that every Islamic center should first and foremost be a center of learning. Regular lectures, study circles, Qur’an halaqahs, classes in creed (’aqīdah), and Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) should not be occasional activities, but part of a continuous educational process.
Practically speaking, this means that a believer does not limit their religious life to attending Friday prayer alone. Participating in weekly classes—even once or twice a week—should become part of one’s regular schedule, just like work or family responsibilities. It also means organizing structured educational programs that systematically cover different Islamic sciences rather than relying solely on occasional motivational talks.
Allah says:
“Say: Are those who know equal to those who do not know?”
(Qur’an, Az-Zumar 39:9).
A community that invests in knowledge gains clarity. When questions or disagreements arise, it returns to authentic evidence. When challenges emerge, it possesses firm foundations upon which to build its response.
Preserving Unity with Care
The community of Madinah remains the greatest example of true brotherhood. The Muhājirūn left behind their homes and possessions, while the Anṣār welcomed them as brothers. This was not merely an emotional bond but a practical commitment to sharing wealth, responsibilities, and mutual support.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The believers are like one body: when one limb suffers, the entire body responds with sleeplessness and fever.”
(Sahih Muslim, no. 2586).
Today, this means that a community responds to the needs of its members. If someone loses their job, the mosque seeks to help through advice, professional contacts, or a solidarity fund. If someone has been absent from the mosque for an extended period, the imam or members of the community reach out to ask about their well-being.
Allah says:
“Hold firmly, all together, to the rope of Allah and do not become divided.”
(Qur’an, Āl ’Imrān 3:103).
In practice, this means resolving disagreements within the framework of the community through dialogue and consultation (shūrā), rather than through gossip and division. The mosque committee and the imam should regularly meet with community members, provide opportunities for questions and suggestions, and address concerns before dissatisfaction begins to grow.
The Mosque as a Living Institution
In Madinah, the mosque was the heart of the city. It was a place of prayer, education, consultation, and social support.
Today, the Islamic center should fulfill the same comprehensive role.
Allah says:
“Establish prayer, give zakah, and bow together with those who bow.”
(Qur’an, Al-Baqarah 2:43).
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Prayer performed in congregation is twenty-seven times more rewarding than prayer performed individually.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, no. 645; Sahih Muslim, no. 650).
Practically, this means encouraging regular attendance at the daily prayers, especially Fajr and ‘Isha’.
Organizing communal iftars, family days at the mosque, and youth gatherings helps transform the mosque into more than simply a place of worship; it becomes a place where genuine brotherhood and sisterhood flourish.
Qur’an study circles hold a special place. They are not merely about learning proper recitation but about developing a living relationship with the Book of Allah. A weekly halaqah creates a circle of believers who know one another, support one another, and grow together.
Perseverance in children’s Islamic education (maktab) is a long-term investment. Parents should organize their schedules so that their children do not miss classes without valid reasons. Maktab should never be viewed as a secondary activity. A child who spends ten years in Islamic education carries with them a strong Muslim identity, sound religious knowledge, and a lasting sense of belonging to their community.
Leadership as a Trust and Responsibility
In Madinah, leadership was regarded as a sacred trust (amānah).
Allah instructed the Prophet ﷺ:
“Consult them in matters.”
(Qur’an, Āl ’Imrān 3:159).
Today, this means that community leaders should regularly report to members about finances, ongoing projects, and important decisions. Procedures should be transparent, and major decisions should not be made by a small group without proper consultation.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The best of your leaders are those whom you love and who love you.”
(Sahih Muslim, no. 1855).
When trust exists, a community flourishes. When trust disappears, energy is wasted on suspicion and internal conflict.
Caring for People
The community of Madinah was deeply attentive to the needs of every individual. No one was invisible.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“He is not one of us who does not show respect to our elders and mercy to our young.”
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, no. 1919).
Practically, this means organizing visits to elderly members, involving them in advisory roles, giving young people opportunities to initiate projects and contribute actively, and establishing funds dedicated to social welfare.
Allah says:
“And in whose wealth there is a recognized right for the beggar and the deprived.”
(Qur’an, Al-Ma’ārij 70:24–25).
This social responsibility can be fulfilled through regular charitable initiatives, transparent welfare funds, and volunteer teams that monitor and respond to the needs of families within the community.
Making a Positive Contribution to Society
The community of Madinah became known for its justice, trustworthiness, and exemplary character.
Allah says:
“You are the best nation produced for mankind: you enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allah.”
(Qur’an, Āl ’Imrān 3:110).
Today, this means that members of the mosque community should be exemplary in their professions and daily conduct. The Islamic center should cooperate with local institutions, participate in humanitarian initiatives, and represent Islam through dialogue, mutual respect, and responsible citizenship.
A Community in Constant Improvement
A mosque community built upon the principles of Madinah is a lifelong project of continuous improvement.
It requires knowledge, active participation, perseverance, and a profound sense of responsibility.
Regular attendance at educational programs strengthens religious understanding.
Perseverance in children’s Islamic education preserves their identity.
Qur’an study circles nourish the heart.
Congregational prayer strengthens the bonds between believers.
Consultation (shūrā) safeguards unity.
Caring for people brings the blessings of Allah.
A community that neglects its youth will lose its future.
A community that neglects its elders will lose its wisdom and experience.
A community that forgets its poor will lose its barakah (divine blessing).
(Central khutbah by the Religious Leader Hafiz Hilmija Redžić on May 15, 2026, at the “Centre Culturel Islamique de Luxembourg” in Mamer)
