Hadith #5239

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of looking frequently at those over whom you have been given superiority, as it is a means of expressing gratitude. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (nazara) "نَظَرَ" in Arabic, which means "to look," carries a deeper connotation in this context. It signifies not only physical observation but also a contemplative and reflective gaze. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to actively and attentively observe those whom we have been given superiority over, whether it be in knowledge, wealth, or any other aspect. This act of looking is not merely a superficial glance but a deliberate effort to understand and appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us.

The phrase (fuddilta 'alayhi) "فُضِّلْتَ عَلَيْهِ" refers to the state of being given superiority or preference over someone. It implies that we have been granted a certain advantage or privilege in comparison to others. This superiority could be in terms of knowledge, skills, resources, or any other aspect that sets us apart.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then highlights the significance of this act, stating that it is one of the gates or means of expressing gratitude. Gratitude is an essential virtue in Islam, and it entails acknowledging and appreciating the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By actively observing and reflecting upon the individuals over whom we have been given superiority, we recognize the favor of Allah upon us and develop a sense of gratitude.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of gratitude. 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 an increase in blessings from Allah. By actively looking at those over whom we have been given superiority, we acknowledge the favor of Allah and express gratitude for His blessings. This act of gratitude opens the doors for further blessings and increases the favor bestowed upon us.

Furthermore, the Quran also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the blessings of Allah. In Surah An-Nahl (16:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

By actively observing and reflecting upon the individuals over whom we have been given superiority, we become aware of the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon us. This awareness leads to a deeper sense of gratitude and appreciation for the countless favors of Allah, which we may have taken for granted.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to frequently look at those over whom we have been given superiority serves as a reminder for us to be grateful and appreciative of the blessings in our lives. It encourages us to reflect upon the favor of Allah and express gratitude for His blessings. By doing so, we not only strengthen our relationship with Allah but also develop a sense of empathy and compassion towards those who may be less fortunate than us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of actively observing and reflecting upon those over whom we have been given superiority. By doing so, we express gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us and develop a deeper appreciation for the favors of Allah. Let us strive to implement this advice in our lives and cultivate a spirit of gratitude and empathy towards others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be grateful and appreciative of His blessings.