Bullying in all its forms must be prevented as it is an act of oppression forbidden in Islam and can have serious consequences for victims, including the loss of innocent lives, the Friday sermon reminded Muslims nationwide on Friday.
The sermon, titled “Spread Compassion, Stop Bullying”, said Islam does not permit any form of oppression and instead teaches Muslims to respect others, show compassion and safeguard the welfare of fellow human beings.
Bullying can occur through words, physical actions or social media, and may take place at schools, workplaces, within families or online.
The sermon said such behaviour can involve humiliating, threatening, oppressing or hurting another person to the extent that their dignity, emotional well-being and safety are affected.
Beyond the lasting emotional impact on victims, bullying can damage friendships and bonds of brotherhood and undermine harmony in society. If left unchecked, its consequences can become extremely serious.
Muslims were reminded that Islam prohibits hurting or causing hardship to others through words, actions or any other conduct that may cause harm.
Citing a hadith narrated by Imam Muslim, the sermon highlighted Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) teaching that a true Muslim is one from whose tongue and hands other Muslims are safe.
The congregation was also reminded of a Hadith Qudsi in which Allah the Almighty forbids oppression and commands His servants not to oppress one another.
The sermon stressed that peace and security are among the great blessings bestowed by Allah the Almighty, allowing people to carry out their daily activities and acts of worship in tranquillity.
While disagreements and disputes are unavoidable in life, Muslims should prioritise harmony and unity by exercising patience, controlling their emotions and restraining anger so that conflicts can be resolved peacefully.
The sermon said Islam is a religion of mercy and compassion that encourages its followers to care for one another, practise noble conduct and do good to fellow human beings.
It also urged members of the public not to remain silent when they witness or become aware of bullying.
Rather than becoming spectators or sharing recordings that could further humiliate victims, people should intervene in a safe manner, support those affected and report incidents to parents, teachers, management or the relevant authorities.
Complaints should be addressed promptly, fairly and wisely to ensure victims are protected, while perpetrators are given appropriate guidance and action is taken against them.
The sermon also emphasised reconciliation when misunderstandings, disputes or hostility arise among Muslims.
Referring to Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, the sermon reminded the faithful that believers are brothers and should therefore seek to reconcile those who are in conflict.
It said practising and embracing Islamic teachings in daily life could help prevent bullying, oppression and other forms of cruelty while creating safer environments founded on mutual respect at home, in schools, workplaces and the wider community.
Noble character and good conduct were also highlighted as essential foundations for developing individuals who love goodness and stay away from wrongdoing.
Muslims were urged to take Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) as their role model in speech, behaviour and interactions with others, particularly in guiding the younger generation.
The sermon concluded by calling on Muslims to reflect on their own conduct and reject bullying and all forms of oppression, which cause suffering, fuel hostility and create divisions in society.
Instead, Muslims should cultivate compassion, mercy, mutual respect and a willingness to help one another, while making homes, schools, workplaces and communities safe spaces for all.
“Cultivate compassion through gentle words, noble character and actions that bring benefit,” the sermon said.
SOURCE/AUTHOR : IZAH AZAHARI
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