Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura
Friday Sermon
7 November 2025 / 16 Jamadilawal 1447H
Instilling Tranquillity in Family Relationships
Dear blessed congregation,
Have taqwa and be conscious of Allah s.w.t. Obey His commands and avoid His prohibitions. Apply His teachings in every aspect of our lives. Seek peace and tranquillity by maintaining our relationship with Allah, the One True Lord. May He continue to grant us blessings and goodness in all affairs. Amin, ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
My dear brothers,
Indeed, every person aspires to provide the best for their family. But what does a family truly wish for? Is it merely affection, financial provision, or a comfortable home?
Yes, these are all important matters for any family. However, there is one core value that serves as the foundation of every family relationship, that is sakinah or tranquillity.
Allah s.w.t. says in Surah Ar-Rum, verse 21:
Which means: “And among His signs is that He created for you spouses from among yourselves, so that you may find tranquillity in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in this are signs for those who reflect.”
Allah created human beings in pairs, man and woman, so that they may live in peace and tranquillity. From the love that blossoms between husband and wife, comes the gift of children, by Allah’s will. Affection then extends among siblings, relatives, and kin, nurturing warmth and closeness. This is the happiness, tranquillity, and love that every family dreams of.
Dear brothers and sisters,
It is also part of human nature that not every family relationship brings peace. At times, connections become strained, love and respect begin to fade. Often, it is not merely caused by financial or material hardship, but negative habits and attitudes one may not even notice.
When a family member feels unappreciated, constantly criticised, emotionally burdened, or even subjected to abuse, the tranquillity and peace of the family are inevitably torn apart.
The Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. frequently reminded us to treat our families with kindness and to mind our behaviour towards them. He was the best of examples in family life. The Prophet s.a.w. said:
Which means: “The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family.” (Narrated by al-Tirmizi)
From this Prophetic guidance, today’s khutbah shares three good practices that can help instil tranquillity within our families:
First: Communicate with sincerity and wisdom
Before we speak or act, let us reflect: Are our words or actions positive or hurtful? Will they bring benefit or harm? And are we using the most suitable and wise approach?
Sometimes, we may have good intentions and want to impart advice. But good intentions alone are not enough if our words wound the heart of the other person. Islam teaches us to use language that touches hearts, not stirs negative emotions. Learn how to communicate effectively within our family. Convey our messages constructively, not destructively.
Second: Acknowledge mistakes and seek forgiveness
As human beings, we may have hurt our family members, left some of their expectations unmet, or made them feel neglected. Some may still carry painful memories that remain unresolved.
Therefore, we must be self-aware and conscious. If we have made a past error, admit our shortcomings. Listen to their feelings with care and empathy. Do not gaslight by belittling or dismissing old wounds. Train ourselves to apologise, for it is a sign of strength, not weakness. Beware of the need to always win an argument, only to lose the peace within our family.
Third: Restrain anger and practise patience
Sometimes, interactions within the family can stir anger or frustration, and even lead to emotional distress. In such situations, avoid reacting impulsively. Acting in rashness often leads to regret.
More seriously, anger can escalate into violence, which is unacceptable in any circumstance.
When anger arises, take a moment to calm ourselves. Remember the Prophet’s guidance: when angry, remain silent. Be patient and avoid rash actions. Seek refuge in Allah from the whispers of Shaytan by saying a‘uzubillah. Change our position to ease our tension, or perform the ablution to restore coolness in our hearts. Once the situation has settled down, seek understanding and reconciliation to restore our relations.
Dear blessed congregation,
Each person deserves to live in a family filled with harmony and peace, coloured by love and warmth born of faith. The bond between us and our families must always remain a priority. Protect our families from negative influences, including those that may arise from within ourselves. Resolve daily to keep striving towards goodness together with our loved ones.
May Allah s.w.t. bless our families with peace, love, and blessings, making them sources of tranquillity, compassion, and divine reward for every family member.
Second Sermon
Dear blessed congregation,
In this examination period, let us pray that all students and our children are granted peace in their hearts and a clarity of mind, so that they may face their tests with assurance. May all parents, family members, and teachers also be blessed with wisdom and patience as they guide and provide support to the students.
May Allah grant us all beneficial knowledge and allow us to benefit from the knowledge we have learned. Ya Allah Ya Samī’ Ya ‘Alīm, instil in our hearts true knowledge and sincere faith, so that we may attain everlasting success.
