Hadith #7705

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

خَيْرُ الأعْمالِ مَا اكْتَسَبَ شُكْراً۔

which translates to

The best of actions is that which earns gratitude.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of gratitude in our actions and highlights its significance in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the depth and wisdom of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "أعْمالِ" refers to actions or deeds, encompassing all that we do in our lives. "اكْتَسَبَ" means to acquire or earn, indicating that our actions should result in something tangible or beneficial. And finally, "شُكْراً" means gratitude, which is the expression of appreciation and acknowledgment for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran beautifully emphasizes the importance of gratitude in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ibrahim (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 abundance of blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we express gratitude for what we have, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to increase us in His favor.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah An-Naml (27:40), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Said one who had knowledge from the Scripture, 'I will bring it to you before your glance returns to you.' And when [Solomon] saw it placed before him, he said, 'This is from the favor of my Lord to test me whether I will be grateful or ungrateful. And whoever is grateful - his gratitude is only for [the benefit of] himself. And whoever denies [His favor] - then indeed, Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.'

This verse narrates the story of Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his response to the blessings bestowed upon him. It highlights the importance of gratitude as a means of testing our faith and character. Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) recognized that gratitude is not only beneficial for oneself but also a means of acknowledging Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) favors.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best actions are those that are accompanied by gratitude. When we perform acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, or charity, with a grateful heart, we enhance the quality and sincerity of our actions. Gratitude transforms our deeds into acts of devotion and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, gratitude has profound effects on our spiritual and emotional well-being. It cultivates humility, contentment, and a positive mindset. By recognizing and appreciating the blessings in our lives, we develop a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Gratitude also strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) as we acknowledge His infinite mercy and generosity.

Furthermore, gratitude is not limited to expressing thanks for material possessions or worldly blessings. It extends to recognizing and appreciating the intangible blessings, such as good health, knowledge, guidance, and the opportunity to worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Gratitude should be an integral part of our daily lives, manifesting in our words, actions, and thoughts.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best actions are those that are accompanied by gratitude. Gratitude is a powerful and transformative quality that enhances the quality of our deeds, strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and brings about numerous spiritual and emotional benefits. Let us strive to cultivate gratitude in our hearts and incorporate it into every aspect of our lives as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly grateful and accept our actions with gratitude.