Hadith #10313

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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 gratitude and generosity in preserving and enhancing the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the words used in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (niʿamah) "نِعَمَ" in the Hadith refers to the blessings and favors that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows upon His creation. These blessings can be both material and spiritual, encompassing health, wealth, knowledge, guidance, and countless other provisions that Allah grants us out of His infinite mercy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the key to making these blessings last is through (shukriha) "شُكْرِهَا", which means showing gratitude for them. Gratitude is an essential aspect of faith and is repeatedly emphasized in the Quran. 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.'

By expressing gratitude for the blessings we receive, we acknowledge that they are gifts from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and recognize His benevolence. This recognition deepens our connection with Him and strengthens our faith. Moreover, when we are grateful, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to increase His favors upon us. Thus, gratitude not only helps us preserve the blessings we have but also opens the doors for further blessings.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that nothing beautifies blessings like (badliha) "بَذْلِهَا", which means granting them to others. This highlights the importance of generosity and sharing our blessings with those in need. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to be generous and charitable in the Quran, stating in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261),

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills.

When we share our blessings with others, we not only bring joy and relief to those in need but also enhance the beauty and value of our own blessings. By giving to others, we emulate the generosity of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfill our duty as His vicegerents on earth. Moreover, Allah promises to multiply the rewards for those who spend in His cause, ensuring that our generosity is rewarded both in this world and the Hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that gratitude and generosity are intertwined virtues that enable us to preserve and enhance the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By expressing gratitude, we acknowledge Allah's favors and invite more blessings into our lives. By being generous, we not only bring happiness to others but also increase the value and beauty of our own blessings. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to show gratitude and generosity, and may He bless us with His eternal favors.