Hadith #5313

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ أدامَ الشُّكْرَ اِسْتَدامَ البِرَّ۔

This can be translated as,

One who continues showing gratitude makes the goodness [and blessing] last.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (shukr) "شُّكْرَ" in Arabic refers to expressing gratitude and appreciation for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is an act of acknowledging and recognizing the favors and bounties that Allah has bestowed upon us. Gratitude is not limited to mere words of thanks, but it encompasses a deep sense of appreciation and recognition of the blessings in our lives.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of gratitude in the Quran in multiple verses. In Surah Ibrahim (14:7), Allah says,

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 the increase in blessings from Allah. When we express gratitude, Allah bestows upon us even more blessings and goodness.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Naml (27:40), Allah says,

Said one who had knowledge from the Scripture, 'I will bring it to you before your glance returns to you.' And when [Solomon] saw it placed before him, he said, 'This is from the favor of my Lord to test me whether I will be grateful or ungrateful. And whoever is grateful - his gratitude is only for [the benefit of] himself. And whoever denies [His favor] - then indeed, Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.'

This verse highlights the story of Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the test of gratitude. It emphasizes that gratitude is not only beneficial for us but also a means of acknowledging Allah's favors and increasing our own spiritual growth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us that gratitude is not a one-time act but rather a continuous practice. By maintaining a state of gratitude, we ensure that the goodness and blessings bestowed upon us remain constant and lasting. When we express gratitude consistently, we develop a positive mindset and attract more blessings into our lives.

For example, if we are grateful for the provision of food, we not only acknowledge the blessings of having sustenance but also develop a sense of contentment and satisfaction. This gratitude leads to a greater appreciation for the food we consume, which in turn enhances our overall well-being and nourishment. Moreover, when we express gratitude for the people in our lives, we strengthen our relationships and create an atmosphere of love and harmony.

The consequences of practicing gratitude are not limited to our personal lives but extend to our spiritual growth as well. Gratitude is a means of recognizing Allah's infinite mercy and blessings upon us. It deepens our connection with Him and strengthens our faith. When we are grateful, we acknowledge that every blessing comes from Allah alone, and this realization humbles us and increases our devotion to Him.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of continuous gratitude. By expressing gratitude consistently, we not only make the goodness and blessings last but also invite more blessings into our lives. Gratitude is a transformative practice that enhances our well-being, strengthens our relationships, and deepens our connection with Allah. Let us strive to be grateful Muslims, recognizing and appreciating the countless blessings bestowed upon us by our Lord. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be grateful and make our gratitude a means of increasing His blessings upon us.