Good companionship and its effect on steadfastness in faith – Sermon at the Grand Mosque
The Imam and Khateeb of the Grand Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Yasser Al-Dosari, affirmed that keeping good company is one of the most important pillars of steadfastness in the religion of God Almighty. He pointed out that continuing acts of worship after the seasons of blessings is the clearest indication of the acceptance and righteousness of one's deeds. In his sermon at the Grand Mosque, he explained that the sign of a blessed Hajj and the mark of God's pleasure and acceptance are manifested in persevering in obedience to God and remaining steadfast in it throughout one's life. He noted that faith increases and decreases, and that a believer is in constant need of what strengthens his heart in the truth, especially in a time when trials and temptations abound.
The concept of steadfastness in religion and its importance in the life of a Muslim
Sheikh Al-Dossari explained that steadfastness in the religion of God is a fundamental requirement for all believers, and a pillar upon which the righteous rely in their spiritual journey. Steadfastness is the impregnable fortress and the firm foundation that protects sound human nature from deviation and error, and safeguards minds from being swept away by doubts and desires. It also preserves hearts from wavering and turning away from the truth. He emphasized that steadfastness in religion is the commandment of God Almighty to His noble Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, as He, the Exalted, said in His Holy Book: “So glorify the praises of your Lord and be among those who prostrate [in prayer]. And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty [of death].”.
The role of good companionship and remembrance of God in promoting righteousness
The Imam of the Grand Mosque addressed the factors that aid in steadfastness, emphasizing that one of the most prominent reasons for remaining firm is keeping good company , which helps the Muslim to do good and reminds him of God when he forgets. He cited the hadith of Abu Hurairah (may God be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “A person is on the religion of his close friend, so let one of you look at whom he befriends.” He also pointed out that constant remembrance of God Almighty is one of the greatest means of strengthening the heart, as God Almighty has linked remembrance with steadfastness in the most difficult and trying situations, saying: “O you who have believed, when you meet a group [in battle], stand firm and remember God much that you may be successful.”
The global impact of the message of the Two Holy Mosques in guiding the nation
These faith-based directives from the pulpit of the Grand Mosque serve as a beacon of guidance for millions of Muslims worldwide who follow the sermons from the Two Holy Mosques with great enthusiasm and deep emotion. Historically, the pulpit of the Grand Mosque in Mecca has consistently delivered a moderate Islamic discourse that addresses the realities of the Muslim world and tackles its spiritual and social issues. The impact of these sermons extends beyond the local sphere within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reaching regionally and internationally to solidify the values of tolerance, moderation, and social cohesion, thus contributing to strengthening Muslim unity and protecting societies from alien and misleading ideologies.
