Hadith #2491

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

لاتَصْطَنِعْ مَنْ يَكْفُرُ بِرَّكَ۔

This can be translated into English as:

Do not do a good turn to the one who is ungrateful for your kindness.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (sta'nia) "صطنع" means to strive, endeavor, or make an effort. It implies going out of one's way to do something good for someone. The word (kufr) "كفر" refers to ingratitude or disbelief. It signifies a lack of appreciation and acknowledgment for the favors and kindness shown by others. And finally, the word (bir) "بر" means goodness, kindness, or righteousness.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. 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.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of gratitude and warns against ingratitude. Allah promises to increase His blessings upon those who are grateful, while severe punishment awaits those who deny or reject His favors. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith echoes this sentiment by advising against doing good to those who are ungrateful.

Another Quranic verse that sheds light on this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

And say: 'My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Your presence a sustaining Power.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support in all our endeavors. When we strive to do good, it is crucial to seek Allah's assistance and blessings. However, if we encounter individuals who are ungrateful for our kindness, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us not to continue exerting our efforts towards them.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us a valuable lesson about the consequences of showing kindness to those who are ungrateful. By not reciprocating our kindness, they not only fail to appreciate our efforts but may also take advantage of our goodwill. This can lead to disappointment, frustration, and even exploitation.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to be discerning in our interactions and to prioritize our efforts towards those who are deserving of our kindness. It reminds us that our actions should be driven by sincerity and the desire to please Allah, rather than seeking validation or gratitude from others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims not to exert their efforts towards those who are ungrateful for their kindness. This teaching aligns with the Quranic emphasis on gratitude and seeking Allah's guidance in all our endeavors. By being discerning in our interactions and prioritizing our efforts towards those who appreciate and reciprocate our kindness, we can ensure that our actions are driven by sincerity and the desire to please Allah. May Allah guide us to follow this wisdom and grant us the strength to act accordingly.