Hadith #2278

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 family, his noble companions, and all the righteous Muslims until the Day of Judgment.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أحْسِنْ تُشْكَرْ۔" This can be translated as,

Do good and you will be thanked.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this amazing Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ahsin) "أحْسِنْ" in this Hadith means to do good, to excel in righteousness, and to perform acts of kindness and benevolence. It encompasses all forms of virtuous actions, whether they are physical, verbal, or spiritual. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us throughout the Quran to do good deeds and to strive for excellence in all aspects of our lives.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:43)

And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience]. Do you order righteousness of the people and forget yourselves while you recite the Scripture? Then will you not reason?

This verse emphasizes the importance of performing acts of worship and righteousness, while also reminding us to not neglect our own spiritual growth in the process.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah says, (Quran 5:2)

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the significance of working together as a community to promote goodness and righteousness, while also cautioning against participating in sinful and aggressive behavior.

The second part of the Hadith states, (tushkar) "تُشْكَرْ", which means to be thanked or appreciated. When we engage in acts of goodness and righteousness, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the betterment of society. Our actions have a positive impact on those around us, and they are likely to be recognized and appreciated by others.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 16:97)

Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he 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 assures us that those who engage in righteous deeds will be rewarded by Allah and will experience a good and fulfilling life in this world and the Hereafter.

When we consistently do good and strive for excellence in our actions, we inspire others to do the same. Our positive behavior becomes a source of motivation for those around us, and it creates a ripple effect of goodness in society. People are more likely to express gratitude and appreciation towards individuals who consistently contribute to the welfare of others.

Moreover, when we do good, we also earn the gratitude and appreciation of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Allah is Al-Shakur, the Most Appreciative, and He rewards His servants abundantly for their righteous deeds. In Surah Al-Zumar, Allah says, (Quran 8:46)

Indeed, Allah is with the righteous.

This verse reassures us that Allah is always with those who strive to do good and remain steadfast in their righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "أحْسِنْ تُشْكَرْ۔" encourages us to engage in acts of goodness and righteousness. By doing so, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the betterment of society. Our actions inspire others, earn the gratitude of Allah, and lead to a fulfilling and rewarding life. Let us strive to excel in righteousness and constantly seek opportunities to do good, knowing that our efforts will be recognized and appreciated. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to consistently do good.