In what was the last Mega Public lecture of the year, Standard Bearers Islamic Organization, Ile-Ife invited the renowned Islamic scholar, Barrister Abdul Hakeem Abdul-Lateef.
Hon ‘Iyepe’ as he is fondly known delivered a thought provoking lecture in Enuwa Central Mosque, Ile-Ife on Sunday, 1st of September, 2024.
In his characteristics style, Hon. Iyepe started the lecture with his entertaining and educative ‘waka’, that set the tune for the lecture.
In a thought-provoking and spiritually enriching lecture, Honourable Iyepe-Barister Abdul Hakeem Abdul-Lateef addressed the pressing issue of moral decadence in Muslim homes, offering practical solutions to combat this growing concern. The event, which drew over 600 attendees, was chaired by Alhaji Busari Okunade, CEO of Irawo Pharmacy, and graced by the esteemed presence of the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, Sheikh Abdusemiu Abdulhameed.
Dr. Abdul-Lateef began by emphasizing the importance of gratitude and loyalty in our relationship with Allah, citing the Qur’anic verse, “And remember when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you in favor.'” (Ibrahim 14:7). He then presented an uncommon exegesis of Surah Ādiyat, highlighting the remarkable loyalty of the horse to its master, despite being subjected to hardship and toil.
In contrast, he noted, humans often exhibit ingratitude towards their Lord, despite being blessed with countless favors “Indeed mankind, to his Lord, is ungrateful”. (Surah Ādiyah 100 vs 6)
The audience was amazed by Dr. Abdul-Lateef’s unique perspective on this Qur’anic passage, which served as a poignant reminder of our own shortcomings.
As the Qur’an states, “And indeed, We have honored the children of Adam” (Al-Isra’ 17:70), yet we often fail to reciprocate this honor with gratitude and obedience.
Dr. Abdul-Lateef emphasized the crucial role of government, community, and individuals in raising a proper generation of Muslims. He stressed that a collective effort is necessary to address the moral decadence plaguing Muslim homes.
He highlighted the importance of government policies in supporting family values and moral education.
He emphasized community and individual responsibility, particularly in parenting, to instill moral values and a strong sense of faith in children.
He said “parenting is a critical aspect of building a morally upright generation, citing the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) words, “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you will be asked about your flock.” (Bukhari and Muslim). Dr. Abdul-Lateef urged parents to take their responsibility seriously, providing guidance, support, and a nurturing environment for their children’s spiritual growth.
Throughout the lecture, Dr. Abdul-Lateef offered practical advice on how to strengthen family bonds, promote moral values, and create a nurturing environment for spiritual growth.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for Muslims to return to the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah, and to cultivate a sense of loyalty and gratitude towards Allah.
The event served as a timely reminder of the importance of upholding moral values and principles in Muslim homes, and the need for collective effort to address the challenges facing the Muslim community.
Dr. Abdul-Lateef’s expertise, passion, and unique insights made the lecture a resounding success, and his message is sure to resonate with the audience long after the event.
