The Shepherd and the Flock – A Khutbah by Nouman Ali Khan

This khutbah was recorded at the Bayyinah Foundation Musallah on Nov. 17, 2017.

In the eighth ayah of Surah Al-Mu’minun, Allah continues to describe believers whose qualities have earned them His praise and blessings. In this ayah Allah portrays them as shepherds (ra’aen) who are extremely vigilant and responsible as they watch over the sheep he/she have been entrusted with. Metaphorically, this applies to many situations in our lives, but most importantly to our families. Prophet Muhammad also used the same word in a much-quoted Hadith to emphasize the fact that each of us is accountable for protecting our flock. By implication, the edicts in both the Quran and the Hadith suggest that our main focus must be on our own family responsibilities, not on criticizing the shortcomings of others who struggle raising their children, for example. But as we give them their due attention, we must be wary of becoming overbearing, and must make a concerted effort to be extremely patient, kind and loving.