Friday sermon reflects on divine elevation, humility and delay

A Friday sermon by Murtadha Gusau reflects on Islamic teachings about Allah’s authority to elevate, lower, advance and delay people and events. The sermon identifies Allah as Al-Khafid, the One Who Lowers, and Ar-Rafi’, the One Who Elevates. It says these names describe divine authority over people’s honour, rank, status, wealth and power.

Gusau writes that awareness of this authority should encourage successful or powerful people to remain humble. For believers facing difficult circumstances or reduced status, he presents setbacks as temporary and subject to divine wisdom. The sermon also discusses Al-Muqaddim, the One Who Brings Forward, and Al-Mu’akhkhir, the One Who Delays.

It says these names are traditionally considered together because they express Allah’s sovereignty over order, timing and precedence. According to the sermon, people may mistake delay for failure or advancement for permanent success. It argues instead that delay may represent protection, preparation or mercy, while lasting elevation is associated with faith, humility, righteous conduct and beneficial knowledge.

Gusau cites Qur’anic and prophetic references in support of the discussion. The sermon includes supplications attributed to the Prophet Muhammad that invoke Allah as Al-Muqaddim and Al-Mu’akhkhir, including prayers for forgiveness and guidance. It concludes by urging believers to call upon Allah through His beautiful names and to recognise that no person can advance what Allah has delayed or delay what He has brought forward.

The supplied material ends before the sermon’s full conclusion.