Hadith #2498

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises us to never be discouraged from doing good deeds, even if we do not receive gratitude from others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that our benevolence is acknowledged and appreciated by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who does not benefit from it in any way. This serves as a powerful motivation for us to continue performing acts of kindness and righteousness, regardless of the response we receive from others.

To further understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (istinaa'i) "اصْطِناعِ" refers to the act of doing good or performing acts of kindness. It encompasses all forms of benevolence and righteousness. The word (ma'ruf) "معْرُوفِ" refers to that which is recognized as good and virtuous in society. It includes acts of charity, kindness, justice, and all other virtuous deeds.

The Hadith highlights the importance of not being disheartened by the lack of gratitude shown by others. It is a reminder that our intention should be solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and not dependent on the appreciation or acknowledgment of people. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the One who truly appreciates and rewards our good deeds, even if they go unnoticed or unacknowledged by others.

To further emphasize this point, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 16:97)

And whoever does good, whether male or female, and is a believer - We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.

This verse reassures us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will reward us for our good deeds, regardless of whether or not we receive gratitude from others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 22:38)

Indeed, Allah defends those who have believed. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone treacherous and ungrateful.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate protector and supporter of the believers. He does not favor those who are ungrateful and treacherous. Therefore, we should not be disheartened by the ingratitude of others, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is on the side of the believers.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also highlights the potential benefits that can be gained from the gratitude of the thankful. When someone expresses gratitude for our benevolence, it not only brings joy to our hearts but also strengthens the bond between individuals. This gratitude can lead to a cycle of positivity and kindness, creating a harmonious and compassionate society. On the other hand, the ingratitude of the unappreciative should not discourage us, as it is their loss and not ours. We should continue to do good deeds, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is aware of our efforts and will reward us accordingly.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for us to never be deterred from doing good deeds, regardless of the response we receive from others. Our intention should be solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and we should find solace in the fact that our benevolence is acknowledged and appreciated by Him. Let us strive to be grateful for the good done to us and express our gratitude to others, as it not only brings joy to their hearts but also strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and unity among Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to continuously perform acts of kindness and righteousness, seeking His pleasure alone.