Hadith #5256

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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, "الشُّكْرُ مَفْرُوضٌ", which translates to "Gratitude is obligatory." This concise statement holds immense significance and carries a wise message for all Muslims.

The word (shukr) "شُكْر" in Arabic refers to expressing gratitude, thankfulness, and appreciation. It involves recognizing the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and acknowledging His favors. Gratitude is not merely a feeling or an emotion; it is an action that should manifest in our words, deeds, and attitudes.

The term (mafrud) "مَفْرُوضٌ" means obligatory or mandatory. It signifies that gratitude is not optional or recommended, but rather a duty that every Muslim is obligated to fulfill. It is a fundamental aspect of our faith and an essential part of our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The importance of gratitude is emphasized in numerous verses of the Quran. 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 highlights the direct correlation between gratitude and an increase in blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we express gratitude for the blessings we have, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to bestow upon us even more.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:147), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

What would Allah do with your punishment if you are grateful and believe? And ever is Allah Appreciative and Knowing.

This verse highlights that gratitude and belief go hand in hand. When we are grateful to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for His blessings and acknowledge His knowledge and wisdom, we strengthen our faith and deepen our connection with Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, "Gratitude is obligatory," reminds us that gratitude is not limited to expressing thanks for material possessions or worldly achievements. It encompasses gratitude for the countless blessings we often take for granted, such as the gift of life, health, family, and the opportunity to worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a reminder to be grateful for both the apparent and hidden blessings that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us.

Practicing gratitude has numerous benefits for individuals and society as a whole. It fosters a positive mindset, increases contentment, and strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Gratitude also promotes empathy, kindness, and generosity towards others. When we are grateful for what we have, we are more likely to share our blessings with those in need and contribute to the well-being of society.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening Hadith, "Gratitude is obligatory," serves as a reminder for all Muslims to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in their lives. It is a call to recognize and appreciate the countless blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and to express our gratitude through our words, actions, and attitudes. By fulfilling this obligation, we not only strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also contribute to the well-being of ourselves and society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly grateful and may He increase us in His blessings.