Khutbah Arabic ◉

The Friday sermon, or khutbah , stands as one of the most powerful rituals in Islam. Delivered weekly to millions of worshippers, it is a moment of guidance, reminder, and communal bonding. At its heart lies a linguistic element that often sparks discussion: the use of the Arabic language. Why is Arabic central to the khutbah , and how should we understand its role? This essay explains the purpose, structure, and balance required for an effective khutbah in Arabic, offering practical insights for both speakers and listeners. The Religious Basis for Arabic in the Khutbah Arabic holds a unique status in Islam. It is the language of the Qur’an and the final revelation. Most classical scholars agree that certain pillars of the khutbah —namely, the opening praise of Allah ( al-hamdu lillah ), the testimony of faith ( shahadatayn ), and the prayers upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)—must be uttered in Arabic. This requirement is rooted in the fear of losing the prophetic formula and the sacred text.