Hadith #5274

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

خَيْرُ الشُّكْرِ ما كانَ كافِلاً بِالمَزيدِ۔

This can be translated as,

The best gratitude is that which warrants increase.

In this wise utterance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of expressing gratitude and emphasizes that true gratitude leads to an increase in blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words. The word (shukr) "شُّكْرِ" refers to gratitude or thankfulness. It is an expression of appreciation and recognition of the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (kafilan) "كافِلاً" means to guarantee or ensure. It signifies that the gratitude we express should be such that it guarantees an increase in blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The concept of gratitude is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude and promises increased blessings for those who are grateful. In Surah Ibrahim, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 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.'

This ayah clearly illustrates the connection between gratitude and increase in blessings. When we express gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for the blessings He has bestowed upon us, He promises to increase those blessings. This increase can be in various forms, such as spiritual, material, or emotional well-being. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the Most Generous, and He rewards His grateful servants abundantly.

Another ayah that supports the concept of gratitude leading to increase is found in Surah Ibrahim, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 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.'

This ayah emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and warns of the consequences of ingratitude.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith beautifully encapsulates the essence of these Quranic teachings. When we express gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for the blessings He has bestowed upon us, it is a sign of humility and recognition of His infinite mercy. This gratitude should not be limited to mere words, but should be accompanied by actions that reflect our appreciation.

True gratitude is not a one-time occurrence but a continuous state of being. It is a mindset that acknowledges and appreciates the countless blessings we receive from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) every day. When we are truly grateful, we strive to make the most of the blessings we have been given and use them in a way that pleases Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This includes using our time, wealth, and abilities to benefit others and contribute positively to society.

The consequence of expressing gratitude that warrants increase is twofold. Firstly, it deepens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strengthens our faith. When we recognize and appreciate the blessings in our lives, we become more aware of Allah's presence and His constant care for us. This awareness leads to a greater sense of contentment and peace in our hearts.

Secondly, expressing gratitude that warrants increase opens the doors for further blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we are grateful for what we have, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) blesses us with even more. This increase may come in the form of increased provisions, opportunities, or blessings in our relationships. It is a manifestation of Allah's promise to reward those who are grateful.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us the importance of expressing gratitude that warrants increase. By being grateful for the blessings we have received, we not only deepen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also open the doors for further blessings. Let us strive to cultivate a mindset of gratitude and express our appreciation to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through our words, actions, and intentions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly grateful and shower us with His abundant blessings.