Hadith #2472

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the favors and blessings that we have bestowed upon others. The Arabic word (ma'rufah) "مَعْرُوْفَهُ" in this Hadith refers to a favor, kindness, or good deed that one has done for someone else. It encompasses any act of goodness, whether big or small, that brings benefit or happiness to another person.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that if someone fails to nurture or take care of the favor they have done for others, it is as if they have not done it at all. This means that simply performing a good deed is not enough; we must also ensure that we continue to nurture and maintain that favor, showing gratitude and appreciation for it.

This concept of nurturing favors is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of gratitude and appreciation for His blessings. In Surah Ibrahim, Allah says, (Quran 14:7)

And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

This verse highlights the reciprocal nature of gratitude. When we express gratitude for the favors bestowed upon us, Allah increases His blessings upon us. Similarly, when we fail to acknowledge and nurture these favors, we risk losing them.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us that ingratitude is a characteristic of the disbelievers. In Surah Ibrahim, Allah says, (Quran 14:14)

And [recall] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are ungrateful, I will surely punish you with a punishment that is severe.'

This verse serves as a reminder that neglecting or disregarding the favors we have done for others is a sign of ingratitude. It is essential for us as Muslims to recognize and appreciate the blessings we have been given, both from Allah and from our fellow human beings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to reflect on our actions and the favors we have bestowed upon others. It urges us to nurture these favors by expressing gratitude, showing kindness, and continuing to support and uplift those whom we have helped.

For example, if we have financially supported someone in need, nurturing that favor would involve not only providing the initial assistance but also following up with them, ensuring their well-being, and offering further help if required. Similarly, if we have offered emotional support to someone, nurturing that favor would involve being there for them consistently, lending a listening ear, and providing comfort whenever needed.

Nurturing favors has numerous positive consequences. Firstly, it strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community. By actively nurturing the favors we have bestowed upon others, we create a culture of gratitude and appreciation, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among believers.

Secondly, nurturing favors helps us cultivate a humble and grateful attitude. When we acknowledge and appreciate the blessings we have been able to provide, we become more aware of the blessings we have received from Allah. This leads to increased humility and a deeper sense of gratitude towards our Creator.

Lastly, nurturing favors allows us to fulfill our duty as Muslims to be kind and compassionate towards others. By actively maintaining the favors we have done for others, we contribute to the well-being and happiness of those around us, embodying the teachings of Islam and following in the footsteps of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of nurturing the favors we have bestowed upon others. It calls upon us to express gratitude, show appreciation, and continue supporting and uplifting those whom we have helped. By doing so, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, cultivate humility and gratitude, and fulfill our duty as Muslims to be kind and compassionate towards others. May Allah guide us all to nurture the favors we have bestowed and grant us the ability to be grateful for His blessings.