The sermon delivered by Sheikh Maher Bin Hamad Al Muaiqly at the Grand Mosque of Makkah on the Day of Arafat resonated deeply with millions of pilgrims gathered on the plains of Arafat. Emphasizing the core tenets of Islam, Sheikh Al Muaiqly began by praising Allah, extolling His attributes as the Most Wise, Aware, Knowledgeable, and Capable. He underscored Allah’s absolute sovereignty over the universe, drawing upon Quranic verses that illustrate His omnipotence and the unquestioning submission of creation to His command.
Quoting from the Quran, he affirmed, “He swiftly covers the light of day with the darkness of night and has subjected the sun, the moon, and the stars to His command. To Him belongs the creation and the command. Blessed is Allah, Lord of all worlds.” [7:54]
Highlighting the Quran as a guiding mercy for humanity, Sheikh Al Muaiqly emphasized its capacity to rectify behavior and lead towards righteousness. He referenced verse 17:9, stating, “Indeed, this Quran guides to what is most just and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward.”
Reaffirming fundamental Islamic beliefs, he testified to the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH), portraying him as a mercy to mankind and a beacon guiding humanity towards Allah’s compassion.
He declared, “My mercy encompasses all things, but I will decree it [especially] for those who fear Me, give zakah, and believe in Our verses.” [7:156]
The sermon also reiterated the Five Pillars of Islam—the testimony of faith, prayer, zakat, fasting during Ramadan, and the pilgrimage to Hajj. Each pillar was underscored with corresponding Quranic verses, highlighting their pivotal role in a Muslim’s life. Sheikh Al Muaiqly stressed the importance of Ramadan, quoting, “The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it.” [2:185]
Emphasizing Shariah’s principles of preserving religion, life, intellect, wealth, and honor, Sheikh Al Muaiqly highlighted their critical importance for societal stability and prosperity. He invoked verse 4:58, stating, “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.”
Encouraging strict adherence to Hajj regulations with sincerity in worship, the Imam urged pilgrims to emulate the practices of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the pilgrimage. He concluded the sermon with heartfelt supplications for Muslims worldwide, particularly those facing hardships, and offered special prayers for the leadership of Saudi Arabia for their facilitation of Hajj.
The sermon culminated in a universal prayer for forgiveness, safety, and blessings upon all Muslims: “O Allah, forgive the Muslim men and women, and the believing men and women. Protect them from all evil. Preserve for them their faith, their safety, their lives, their wealth, their intellects, and their dignity.”
