UAE Friday sermon: the importance of maintaining a good reputation

Mosque-goers will be told that praiseworthy manners are often mentioned by the prophets in the Quran

Worshippers will be reminded on Friday about of the importance of maintaining a good reputation and praiseworthy manners.

Such traits are often mentioned by the prophets and in the Quran. Prophet Ibrahim was quoted saying in a Quranic verse: “and grant me a reputation of honour among later generations."

Prophet Mohammed was also known for his virtue and lofty conduct.

“His noble character made him stand out as the most impeccable person ever, to the point that his people called him the Truthful and the Honest,” the sermon will tell mosque-goers.

His good reputation made him close to the hearts of people even before he received the Prophecy.

The people of Mecca would trust him with their properties and trade. They resorted to him in case of any dispute saying, "We have never heard you tell a lie."

Before embracing Islam, Heraclius, the Roman king is said to have asked Abu Sufian about the Prophet, saying, "Have you ever accused him of telling lies before his claim (to be a Prophet)?" Abu Sufian said, "No!" Thereupon, Heraclius said, "Certainly, a person who does not tell a lie about others could never tell a lie about Allah."

Therefore, “noble manners and high repute are traits that normally spread widely and are conducive to open people's hearts to their owner,” the sermon will say.

“As a result, they will attain acceptance of people who in turn will feel comfortable dealing with them.”

The sermon will tell worshippers that maintaining a good reputation is also crucial for a community and country.

There is no doubt individuals' standing is the foundation for the community's status, the sermon will say.

For example, the good character of children reflects their parents' good grooming. The same applies to organisations, for the excellence of employees, their commitment to work and their good treatment to customers constitute the image of the organisation for which they work.

“Thus, people can establish their good traits through their behaviours, words and deeds.”