Hadith #5276

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the importance of two actions: increased gratitude (shukr) and maintaining ties with near relatives (silat al-rahim). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that these two actions not only increase blessings (ni'ma) in this life but also extend one's lifespan.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "Ziyadat" means increase, "shukr" means gratitude, "wasilat" means maintaining ties, "rahim" means near relatives, "tazidani" means they increase, "ni'ma" means blessings, and "tafsahan" means they prolong.

The importance of gratitude is emphasized in the Quran in multiple 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 that gratitude leads to an increase in blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Therefore, by expressing gratitude for the blessings we have, we invite more blessings into our lives.

Maintaining ties with near relatives is also emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (4:1),

And fear Allah through whom you ask one another, and the wombs. Indeed Allah is ever, over you, an Observer.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining family ties, as it is a means of seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By staying connected with our relatives, we strengthen the bonds of love and unity within the family, which in turn brings about blessings and sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of this Hadith. Increased gratitude and maintaining ties with near relatives have numerous benefits in this life and the hereafter. When we express gratitude for the blessings we have, we acknowledge Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) favors upon us, and this recognition leads to an increase in those blessings. Gratitude also cultivates a positive mindset, contentment, and a sense of appreciation for the blessings we often take for granted.

Similarly, maintaining ties with near relatives is a means of strengthening family bonds and fostering unity within the community. It promotes love, compassion, and support among family members. By doing so, we create an environment of harmony and peace, which not only brings about worldly blessings but also ensures a longer and healthier life.

Furthermore, the consequences of neglecting gratitude and severing family ties can be detrimental. When we fail to express gratitude, we risk losing the blessings we have been bestowed with. Similarly, severing family ties leads to a breakdown in relationships, causing emotional pain and distress for all parties involved. Neglecting these actions can also lead to a sense of isolation and detachment from the community, which can have negative effects on one's mental and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of increased gratitude and maintaining ties with near relatives. These actions not only increase blessings in this life but also extend one's lifespan. By expressing gratitude and staying connected with our family members, we create an environment of love, unity, and support. Let us strive to implement these teachings in our lives and reap the abundant rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be grateful and maintain strong family ties.