Hadith #5325

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One whose gratitude increases, his goodness [and blessing] increases.

This profound statement emphasizes the importance of gratitude and its direct correlation with the increase in goodness and blessings in one's life.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (shukruhu) "شُكْرُهُ" refers to one's gratitude or thankfulness. It encompasses acknowledging and appreciating the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (kathura) "كَثُرَ" means to increase or multiply, indicating that the act of expressing gratitude leads to an increase in goodness and blessings.

The concept of gratitude is not only emphasized in this Hadith but is also emphasized in the Quran. 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 ayah clearly highlights the direct relationship between gratitude and increase in blessings. When we express gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for His countless favors upon us, He promises to increase us in favor and blessings. Conversely, if we neglect to show gratitude and deny His blessings, we risk facing His severe punishment.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-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, my Lord is Free of need and Generous.'

In this verse, Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) acknowledges the favor bestowed upon him by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and expresses gratitude. He recognizes that gratitude is not only a personal benefit but also a means of passing the test set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This test is a reflection of the increase in goodness and blessings that result from gratitude.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that gratitude is a fundamental aspect of our faith. It is through gratitude that we acknowledge the countless blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By expressing gratitude, we open ourselves up to receiving even more blessings and goodness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Gratitude is not limited to material possessions or worldly achievements. It encompasses gratitude for the gift of life, health, family, knowledge, and the opportunity to worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we truly appreciate these blessings and express gratitude, we invite more goodness and blessings into our lives.

Furthermore, gratitude is not only about words but also about actions. It is about utilizing the blessings we have been given to benefit ourselves and others. When we use our knowledge, wealth, and abilities to serve humanity and please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we are demonstrating true gratitude.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of gratitude and its direct correlation with the increase in goodness and blessings. By expressing gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for His countless favors upon us, we open ourselves up to receiving even more blessings. Gratitude is not limited to words but also requires actions that benefit ourselves and others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly grateful and may He increase us in goodness and blessings.