– Mariya Mohiddin
We know Allah Ta’ala has given us numerous uncountable blessings. Our family is the biggest blessing for us. Our life, our skills, our body parts, each and everything in our life is a true blessing (naimat) that Allah Ta’ala has bestowed upon us.
After giving these blessings, Allah commanded us to be grateful and it’s our duty to be thankful to Allah for all these blessings.
Now let us see what Allah told us in the Qur’an about gratitude.
Gratitude Begins with Recognising the Source
“And whatever of blessings and good things you have, it is from Allah.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:53)
The Qur’an reminds us repeatedly that all blessings – seen and unseen, big and small – originate from Allah. Gratitude starts when we acknowledge that we are not self-sufficient. The clothes we wear, the breath we take, the strength to walk, the capacity to love – all come from Him.
Gratitude is a Choice – One with Rewards
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favour]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.” (Surah Ibrahim 14:7)
Gratitude is not passive. It’s an active choice that brings increase – not just in material terms, but in contentment, spiritual insight, and resilience. Conversely, ingratitude (kufr) is not just thanklessness but a spiritual blindness that distances us from Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: Living Example of Gratitude
The Prophet ﷺ used to pray at night until his feet swelled. When asked why he did this despite his sins already forgiven, he said:
“Should I not be a thankful servant?” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
For the Prophet ﷺ, gratitude was not tied to receiving blessings; it was a fundamental way of expressing love, humility, and servitude to Allah.
Shukr is Not Just Words; It’s a Lifestyle
Gratitude in the Qur’an goes beyond saying “Alhamdulillah.” It encompasses:
The heart – acknowledging the blessing;
The tongue – praising the Giver; and
The limbs – using the blessing rightly.
“Work, O family of David, in gratitude.” (Surah Saba 34:13)
This verse teaches us that gratitude must be shown through action. If Allah gives you wealth, be generous. If He gives you knowledge, share it. If He gives you health, use it in worship.
Reflection & Practice
Here are a few practical ways to make gratitude your way of life:
Daily Dhikr: Say Alhamdulillah often – with presence of mind and utmost sincerity;
Gratitude journal: Write down 3 blessings each day. Look beyond the obvious; and
Service to others: Use your blessings to uplift others.
Sabr + shukr: Train yourself to find something to be thankful for – even in difficulty.
Dua of Gratitude: Ask Allah to make among the grateful:
“O Allah, help me to remember You, thank You, and worship You in the best way.” (Sunan Abi Dawood)
Gratitude is a Way of Life
Gratitude in the Qur’an is not a seasonal feeling; it’s a way of life. It softens the heart, uplifts the spirit, and anchors the believer in times of ease and trial. When we live with gratitude, we live with Allah – mindful of His presence, humbled by His mercy, and empowered by His gifts.
Let our life become a continuous Alhamdulillah – spoken not only with our tongue but with every heartbeat and every action.
