Hadith #1542

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "البِشْرُ أحَدُ العَطائَيْنِ" which translates to

Cheerfulness is one of the two gifts.

This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of having a positive and joyful disposition in life.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (bushr) "بِشْرُ" refers to cheerfulness, happiness, or gladness. It is derived from the root word (bashshara) "بَشَّرَ", which means to bring good news or glad tidings. The word (ata'ayn) "عَطَاءَيْنِ" is the dual form of (ata') "عَطَاء", which means gifts or blessings. The use of the dual form indicates that cheerfulness is one of two gifts bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of cheerfulness as a gift, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nahl (16:97),

Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.

This verse emphasizes that righteousness leads to a good and fulfilling life. One aspect of righteousness is maintaining a positive and cheerful attitude, which brings about contentment and happiness in both this world and the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nahl (16:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Or that Allah may catch them in the midst of their going to and fro (in their jobs), so that there be no escape for them (from Allah's punishment)?

This verse warns against the consequences of a negative and gloomy mindset. It implies that those who are constantly pessimistic and devoid of cheerfulness may find themselves trapped in their own negative thoughts, unable to escape the consequences of their own negativity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the importance of cultivating cheerfulness as a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain a positive outlook on life, even in the face of adversity. By embracing cheerfulness, we can experience the blessings and rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in this world and the Hereafter.

Cheerfulness has numerous benefits in our daily lives. It enhances our relationships, as a cheerful demeanor attracts others and creates a positive atmosphere. It also improves our mental and physical well-being, as studies have shown that a positive mindset can boost our immune system, reduce stress, and increase overall happiness.

Moreover, cheerfulness is a reflection of our faith and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It demonstrates our gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us and our confidence in Allah's mercy and guidance. When faced with challenges, a cheerful Muslim seeks solace in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and finds motivation to persevere.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the importance of cheerfulness as a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By embracing a positive and joyful disposition, we can experience the blessings and rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to cultivate cheerfulness in our lives, for it not only brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also enhances our relationships, improves our well-being, and strengthens our faith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to maintain a cheerful and positive attitude in all aspects of our lives.