Prophet’s Mosque imam urges caution against rumors, highlights lessons from Prophet Joseph’s story

Imam and preacher of the Prophet’s Mosque, Dr. Abdulbari bin Awwad Al-Thubaiti, delivered the Friday sermon today, drawing faith and educational lessons from the story of the shirt of Prophet Joseph, highlighting its embodiment of patience, chastity, forgiveness, and trust in God’s wisdom and care.

Al-Thubaiti began by praising God for the blessings of security and faith, urging Muslims to be mindful of God, describing piety as the believer’s provision, the light of insight, and a shield from temptation, citing the verse: “And be mindful of Allah, and Allah will teach you.”

He explained that Joseph’s shirt appeared in three pivotal moments: first, as evidence of his brothers’ deceit when they cast him into the well; then as proof of his innocence and chastity when he was tempted by the wife of Al-Aziz; and finally as a sign of hope, restoring his father Jacob’s sight.

He noted that the beginning of the story offers a lesson in wisdom and safeguarding blessings, as Jacob advised his son Joseph not to share his vision with his brothers out of fear of envy. He explained that jealousy, once rooted in the heart, can ruin relationships, and not everyone who weeps is necessarily wronged. He stressed the importance of verifying news and not rushing to judgment, especially amid the spread of rumors.

Al-Thubaiti described Joseph’s journey from the well to the house of Al-Aziz as an example of divine destiny, urging people not to hastily judge God’s decrees, as what may seem harmful can ultimately bring great good.

He addressed Joseph’s trial in the house of Al-Aziz, affirming that his stance reflected true piety and chastity, especially when temptation was present. He called for avoiding situations of temptation to protect one’s faith, self, and honor.

He explained that Joseph’s ordeals ended in empowerment, and that people may only understand the wisdom behind events later on. He noted that Joseph used his time in prison to do good and guide others despite his hardship, citing the verse: “Indeed, whoever fears Allah and is patient, then surely Allah does not allow the reward of those who do good to be lost.”

Al-Thubaiti highlighted Joseph’s forgiveness towards his brothers after attaining power, responding to their wrongdoing with pardon and saying: “No blame will there be upon you today. May Allah forgive you.” He noted that forgiving when able is a trait of noble souls and that letting go of past mistakes opens the door to reform.

He pointed out that Joseph sending his shirt to his father was a sign of relief and family reunion, emphasizing that the shirt was merely a means and that healing comes from God alone. He urged not to despair of God’s mercy.

Al-Thubaiti affirmed that the conclusion of the story embodies patience, certainty, and good expectations of God, citing the verse: “Indeed, my Lord is subtle in what He wills.” He called for reflection on God’s profound wisdom and kindness to His servants.

He concluded the sermon with prayers for God to honor Islam and Muslims, protect Saudi Arabia from harm, grant prosperity and stability to all Muslim countries, guide Saudi leadership, and support the people of Palestine.