Hadith #10296

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "النِّعَمُ تَدُومُ بِالشُّكْرِ" which translates to

Blessings last through gratitude.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "النِّعَمُ" refers to the blessings and favors that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows upon His creation. These blessings can be both tangible and intangible, encompassing various aspects of our lives such as health, wealth, knowledge, and relationships. "تَدُومُ" means to endure or last, indicating that these blessings have the potential to continue and remain with us. And finally, "بِالشُّكْرِ" means through gratitude. Gratitude is the act of acknowledging and appreciating the blessings we receive from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), both inwardly and outwardly.

The concept of gratitude is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude towards Him. 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 direct correlation between gratitude and the increase in blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we express gratitude for the blessings we have, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to increase them.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nahl, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 16:18)

And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse reminds us that the blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are countless and beyond measure. It is impossible for us to fully comprehend and enumerate the blessings bestowed upon us. Therefore, expressing gratitude becomes even more essential as it is a means of acknowledging and appreciating the countless blessings we receive from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that blessings are not meant to be taken for granted. They are not meant to be fleeting or temporary. Rather, they have the potential to endure and last through the act of gratitude. When we express gratitude for the blessings we have, we are acknowledging the source of those blessings, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and His infinite mercy and generosity.

Gratitude is not merely a verbal expression, but it should manifest in our actions and attitudes. It should be deeply ingrained in our hearts and reflected in our behavior towards others. When we are grateful, we are more likely to use our blessings in a way that pleases Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and benefits those around us. Gratitude also protects us from the dangers of arrogance and entitlement, as it reminds us that all blessings come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

Moreover, gratitude has a transformative effect on our overall well-being. It cultivates a positive mindset, increases contentment, and strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we are grateful, we are more likely to recognize the blessings in even the smallest of things, leading to a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Blessings last through gratitude,

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to express gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By acknowledging and appreciating these blessings, we not only ensure their continuity but also strengthen our relationship with our Creator. Let us strive to be grateful Muslims, recognizing and expressing gratitude for the countless blessings we have been granted, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) increase us in His favor.