Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura
Friday Sermon
25 July 2025 / 29 Muharram 1447H
Becoming an Exemplary Individual
Blessed congregation,
Let us illuminate our hearts and souls with taqwa and the sincerity to worship Allah s.w.t. May Allah bless all the efforts we put in to get closer to Him. Amin, ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
Honoured congregation,
We may have been asked: “Who is your role model?” and usually, we can answer this question with ease. However, if we were to be questioned: “Who considers you a role model?”, what will our answer be?
Dear brothers, why is it important for us to reflect on this question? Whether we realise it or not, there will always be eyes observing us, possibly emulating our actions.
An individual is likely to observe and emulate the character of their parents, siblings, schoolmates, or even colleagues at the workplace. Social media platforms also provide additional examples from the lives of certain personalities.
Now, the question “who considers you a role model?” is ever important, so that we may reflect – are we being a good role model, or a bad example to those around us?
My dear and beloved congregation,
As Muslims, we perceive the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. to be the finest role model. He was created in human form, just like us. He too experienced joy and sorrow. At times he was in laughter, and at times he was in pain. Yet, the Messenger of Allah s.a.w. consistently radiated noble character in every circumstance, serving as a role model for all of us.
The Prophet s.a.w. also reminded us to constantly strive to be a good example for others. He said that which means: “Whosoever guides someone to goodness will have a reward similar to that of the one who performs it.” (Narrated by Muslim)This advice should inspire us to be initiators of goodness and drivers of excellence in every aspect of life, thereby becoming exemplary individuals.
Dear blessed congregation,
In heeding the Prophet’s s.a.w. call to become exemplary individuals, here are a few steps that we could consider:
First: Begin with ourselves – Are we setting a good example for others?
My dear brothers, does each of us not have our own circle of influence? Be it in the mosque, school, workplace, among relatives and acquaintances, or even at home. Our character can leave a lasting impact on those around us. Indirectly, our influence has either a positive or negative effect.
As a believer (mukmin), a student seeks knowledge in response to the call of religion. He strives diligently to succeed in his field, thereby becoming an exemplary student and an inspiration to his peers.
A mukmin is someone whose character is beautiful, whose speech is courteous, and with whom dealings are easy. He is aware that, from the beginning, people come to know Islam through the character of its adherents — which should serve as an example — rather than through religious texts. Such is what is recorded in the biography or sirah of the Messenger of Allah s.a.w. Thus, the character of the Prophet s.a.w. is ever-worthy of emulation.
Second: Realise that every action – whether good or bad – can cause a chain reaction.
Reflect on the analogy that Allah s.w.t. gives in Surah Ibrahim, verses 24–25:
Which means: “Do you not see how Allah compares a good word to a good tree? Its root is firm and its branches reach the sky.”
“It brings its fruits at all times with the will of its Lord. Allah sets forth the examples for the people, so that they may be reminded (and learn).”
Every good deed that we do may affects the lives of others. A kind word or a pleasant interaction with family members can strengthen relationships and, at times, even reconcile strained ties. Whereas choosing to forgive someone who has hurt us can break the cycle of hatred, thereby setting an example for others to make peace.
Dear blessed congregation,
Let us use our lives, granted by Allah, to serve as role models, and inspire good deeds and positive change in the people around us. Ya Allah, bless us with steadfastness, wisdom, and confidence in our effort to develop exemplary character, which reflects the beauty of Your guidance. Amin, ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
Second Sermon
