Hadith #5863

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

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

إذا رَأيْتَ رَبَّكَ يُوالي عَلَيْكَ البَلاءَ فَاشْكُرْهُ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

When you see your Lord continually testing you [with hardships] then be grateful to Him.

In this profound Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of gratitude in the face of trials and tribulations. To fully understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of key words in this Hadith.

The first word of significance is (ra'ayta) "رَأيْتَ", which means "when you see" or "when you witness." This implies that the trials and hardships we face are not mere coincidences or random events, but rather a deliberate test from our Lord. It calls upon us to be mindful and observant of the signs and lessons that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) presents to us through these challenges.

The next crucial word is (Rabbaka) "رَبَّكَ", which means "your Lord." This emphasizes the personal and intimate relationship between the individual and Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate source of all power, control, and guidance in our lives. Recognizing this relationship is essential in understanding the purpose behind the trials we face.

The term (yuwali) "يُوالي" is translated as "continually testing" or "afflicting." It signifies that the trials and hardships are not isolated incidents, but rather a continuous process. This highlights the reality that life is filled with challenges, and they serve as a means to purify and strengthen our faith.

Lastly, the word (balaa) "بَلاءَ" refers to hardships, difficulties, or afflictions. It encompasses a wide range of trials, including physical, emotional, and spiritual struggles. These trials can manifest in various forms, such as illness, loss, poverty, or persecution.

To further understand the significance of gratitude in the face of trials, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155-157):

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, Who, when disaster strikes them, say, 'Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.' Those are the ones upon whom are blessings from their Lord and mercy. And it is those who are the [rightly] guided.

These verses remind us that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and they serve as a test of our patience and faith. The believers who remain steadfast and express gratitude in the face of adversity are the ones who receive blessings and mercy from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Gratitude in times of hardship is not merely about saying words of thanks, but it is a state of the heart and a reflection of our trust in Allah's wisdom and plan. It is about recognizing that every trial has a purpose and that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the best of planners. Gratitude allows us to find solace and contentment in the midst of difficulties, knowing that our Lord is with us and will guide us through.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to be grateful to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) when we witness Him continually testing us. This gratitude is not only a means of seeking His pleasure but also a way to transform our hardships into opportunities for growth and spiritual elevation.

When we express gratitude in times of trial, we shift our focus from the difficulties themselves to the lessons and blessings they bring. We become aware of our own weaknesses and limitations, leading us to seek Allah's guidance and support. Gratitude also helps us develop empathy and compassion towards others who may be facing similar challenges, allowing us to extend a helping hand and support them in their struggles.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of gratitude in the face of trials and tribulations. It calls upon us to recognize the purpose behind the hardships we face and to be grateful to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for the continuous tests that shape and strengthen our faith. By expressing gratitude, we not only seek Allah's pleasure but also transform our hardships into opportunities for growth and spiritual elevation. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to remain grateful in all circumstances and guide us on the path of righteousness.