Hadith #2514

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

المعروف غل لا يفكه إلا شكرٌ، أو مكافاةٌ

which translates to

Good turns are shackles that cannot be extricated except through gratitude or requital.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of showing gratitude and reciprocating acts of kindness.

The word (al-ma'ruf) "المعروف" in this Hadith refers to acts of goodness, kindness, and benevolence. It encompasses any action that is morally upright and beneficial to others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes these acts as (ghul) "غل", which can be understood as shackles or bonds. Just as shackles bind a person, good deeds create a sense of obligation and responsibility towards the one who performed them.

To understand the significance of gratitude and requital in extricating these shackles, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152),

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse emphasizes the importance of gratitude towards Allah, as it is a means of strengthening our bond with Him. Similarly, showing gratitude to others for their good deeds strengthens our relationships and fosters a sense of unity within the Muslim community.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah An-Nisa (4:114),

And whoever does good deeds, whether male or female, while being a believer - those will enter Paradise and will not be wronged, [even as much as] the speck on a date seed.

This verse highlights the reward and recompense that awaits those who perform good deeds. By acknowledging and reciprocating acts of kindness, we not only express our gratitude but also fulfill our duty towards our fellow Muslims.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that good deeds should not be taken for granted. Gratitude is the key to unlocking the shackles of these acts of kindness. When we express gratitude, we acknowledge the efforts and intentions of those who have done good to us. This not only brings joy to their hearts but also encourages them to continue performing acts of goodness.

On the other hand, requital is another way of extricating these shackles. When we reciprocate acts of kindness, we not only show our gratitude but also fulfill our obligation towards others. By returning the favor or doing something beneficial in return, we maintain a balance of goodness and ensure that the cycle of kindness continues.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking saying urges us to reflect on our actions and the impact they have on others. It reminds us to be grateful for the good turns we receive and to reciprocate them in kind. By doing so, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community and create an environment of love, compassion, and mutual support.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of gratitude and requital in acknowledging and reciprocating acts of kindness. Just as shackles bind a person, good deeds create a sense of obligation and responsibility. By expressing gratitude and fulfilling our duty towards others, we strengthen our relationships, foster unity, and create a society built on love and compassion. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to show gratitude and reciprocate acts of kindness.