Hadith #5332

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.

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

ما شُكِرَتِ النِّعَمُ بِمِثْلِ بَذْلِها۔

This can be translated as,

Nothing shows gratitude for favors like bestowing them on others.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (shukirati) "شُكِرَتِ" in the Hadith refers to gratitude or thankfulness. Gratitude is a fundamental aspect of our faith as Muslims. It is an acknowledgment and appreciation of the blessings and favors bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Gratitude is not only expressed through words but also through actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the best way to show gratitude for the blessings we have received is by sharing them with others. This means that we should not hoard our blessings and keep them to ourselves, but rather, we should be generous and selfless in using our blessings to benefit others.

This concept of gratitude and sharing is beautifully reflected in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9),

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

Here, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) highlights the importance of giving food to those in need, without expecting anything in return. This selfless act of giving is a manifestation of gratitude towards Allah's blessings. By sharing our blessings with others, we not only express gratitude to Allah but also fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings.

Another verse that aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:272), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness lies in believing in Allah and His teachings, and in using our wealth to benefit those in need. By giving our wealth to others, even when it is dear to us, we demonstrate our gratitude towards Allah and His blessings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for us as Muslims. When we are grateful for the blessings we have received, we should not confine our gratitude to mere words. Instead, we should actively seek opportunities to share our blessings with others, whether it is through acts of charity, kindness, or support.

By bestowing our blessings on others, we not only express gratitude to Allah but also contribute to the well-being and happiness of our fellow human beings. This selfless act of giving not only benefits those in need but also purifies our hearts and strengthens our relationship with Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true gratitude is not limited to words or thoughts alone. It is best expressed through actions that benefit others. By sharing our blessings with those in need, we demonstrate our gratitude towards Allah and fulfill our duty as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be grateful and generous, and may He bless us with the opportunity to bestow our blessings on others.