Hadith #2426

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One cannot show gratitude for blessings in a better way than using them to benefit others.

This thought-provoking Hadith emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) by utilizing those blessings to benefit others.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (niʿam) "نِعَمَ" refers to blessings or favors. It encompasses all the bounties and favors that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us, both tangible and intangible. The word (inʿām) "إنْعَامِ" is derived from the same root and refers to the act of bestowing blessings.

The Hadith highlights the concept of gratitude, which is an essential aspect of our faith. Gratitude is not merely expressed through words, but it is demonstrated through actions that benefit others. By utilizing the blessings bestowed upon us to benefit others, we are showing our gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the best possible way.

This concept of utilizing blessings to benefit others is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9),

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of selfless giving and using our blessings to help those in need. The believers are encouraged to provide food and sustenance to the less fortunate, not seeking any reward or gratitude from them, but solely seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Balad (90:11-16), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But he has not broken through the difficult pass. And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? It is the freeing of a slave or feeding on a day of severe hunger, An orphan of near relationship, Or a needy person in misery.

These verses highlight the significance of acts of kindness and charity towards those in need. By freeing a slave, feeding the hungry, supporting orphans, and helping the needy, we are utilizing our blessings to benefit others and fulfill our duty of gratitude towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for us to reflect on the blessings we have been granted and to utilize them in a way that brings benefit to others. It teaches us that true gratitude is not limited to mere words or personal enjoyment of blessings, but it is expressed through selfless actions that uplift and support those in need.

When we use our wealth to provide for the poor, our knowledge to educate others, our time to serve the community, or any other blessings to benefit humanity, we are fulfilling the purpose of those blessings and expressing our gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This act of selfless giving not only benefits others but also purifies our hearts and strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best way to show gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us is by utilizing them to benefit others. This concept is supported by various Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of selfless giving and acts of kindness towards those in need. By practicing this teaching in our daily lives, we can truly express our gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfill our duty as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be grateful and use our blessings to benefit others.