The Art Of Storytelling Flashcards
In Islam, sermons are often referred to as “Khutbah” (خطبة)
In Islam, sermons are often referred to as “Khutbah” (خطبة), which is a speech or sermon given during religious gatherings, particularly during the Friday prayers (Jumu’ah) and other significant occasions.
Khutbah in Islam:
1. Purpose:
• The Khutbah serves as a means of guidance, reminding the congregation of their duties to Allah (God), moral conduct, and proper behavior in society. It often includes advice on religious obligations, ethical principles, and the importance of community.
• It also includes reminders about the significance of faith, prayer, charity, and personal development.
2. Structure:
• The Khutbah is usually delivered in two parts:
• The first part focuses on praising Allah, offering words of advice to the congregation, and encouraging them to be mindful of their faith.
• The second part includes a reminder to the community, typically emphasizing unity, piety, or specific religious instructions, followed by the du’a (supplication) for guidance and blessings.
3. Language and Delivery:
• Khutbahs are commonly delivered in the local language to ensure that the message reaches the congregation effectively. However, the opening phrases of the Khutbah often begin with Arabic phrases like:
• “الحمد لله” (Alhamdulillah) – Praise be to Allah.
• “أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله” (Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah) – I bear witness that there is no God but Allah.
• “أشهد أن محمداً عبده ورسوله” (Ashhadu anna Muhammadur abduhoo wa rasooloohoo) – I bear witness that Muhammad is the servant and messenger of Allah.
4. Occasions for Khutbah:
• Jumu’ah (Friday prayers): The most common time for a sermon in Islam. It is an important weekly gathering where the congregation listens to a sermon before performing the Friday prayer.
• Eid prayers (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha): Special sermons are delivered on these Islamic holidays, often addressing themes of gratitude, sacrifice, and unity.
• Special events: Khutbahs may also be delivered during significant Islamic events, such as the beginning of Ramadan, Hajj, or other important religious occasions.
5. Significance:
• The Khutbah is an essential aspect of communal worship in Islam, providing both spiritual enrichment and practical guidance. It strengthens the bond between the individual and the broader Muslim community while reminding people of their responsibility toward God and fellow human beings.
Example of a Khutbah:
First Part:
“All praise is due to Allah. We seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil within ourselves and from our wrongdoings. Whoever Allah guides, none can misguide, and whoever He allows to go astray, none can guide. I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.”
Second Part:
“O servants of Allah, fear Allah and be mindful of Him. Do not stray from the path of righteousness. Allah says in the Qur’an, ‘Indeed, Allah commands justice, the doing of good, and liberality to kith and kin; He forbids all shameful deeds, injustice, and oppression.’ (Qur’an 16:90) Let us be mindful of our duties to Allah and to each other, and let us strive to live our lives with sincerity and compassion. May Allah guide us all.”
The Khutbah serves not only as a religious reminder but also as an opportunity to gather the community and reinforce core Islamic values.
Linear Thinking vs. Lateral Thinking:
Linear thinkers are individuals who approach problems, tasks, and decision-making in a sequential, step-by-step manner. Their thought process tends to follow a clear, logical progression, where one idea or action leads directly to the next. They generally focus on tangible facts, concrete steps, and structured methods to solve problems or achieve goals.
Characteristics of Linear Thinkers:
1. Step-by-Step Approach:
They tend to break down tasks into clear, manageable steps, ensuring each task is completed in order.
2. Logical and Analytical:
Linear thinkers prefer a structured, organized method, relying on logic and reasoning to guide them through the process.
3. Focus on Details:
They often pay attention to individual details and facts, ensuring everything is accounted for before moving forward.
4. Prefer Predictability:
Linear thinkers often feel more comfortable when the outcome is predictable, and processes are well-defined.
5. Problem-Solving:
They excel at solving problems when there’s a clear path or formula to follow.
Example of a Linear Thinker in Action:
• If tasked with writing a report, a linear thinker would begin by gathering the necessary data, outline the key points, write the introduction, follow with the body, and then conclude. They would focus on one section at a time in a structured order.
Linear Thinking vs. Lateral Thinking:
• Linear Thinking: Involves logical, sequential, and structured steps. It’s focused on solving a problem through direct, conventional approaches.
• Lateral Thinking: In contrast, involves thinking outside the box, finding creative or unconventional solutions, and making connections between seemingly unrelated ideas.
Linear thinking is highly effective for tasks that require precision, organization, and a methodical approach, making it valuable in situations like project management, technical tasks, and situations with clear goals or guidelines.
