According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries, gratitude is defined as a feeling of thankfulness and appreciation that one wishes to express. It is also described as the quality of being grateful.

Gratitude is a valuable trait that enriches our lives, allowing us to acknowledge and appreciate both the positives and challenges we encounter. Being grateful in all circumstances – whether favourable or not – enables us to view every experience as either a stepping stone or a lesson. Our attitude plays a crucial role in shaping our perspective on life’s events.

I personally embrace the mantra: “In all things, give thanks.” This mindset fosters resilience, contentment, and a deeper appreciation for life’s journey, helping us navigate its ups and downs with grace and humility.

My journey as a Muslim has helped me to cultivate a nature of gratitude. The concept of gratitude or shukr in Islam encompasses a believer’s recognition and appreciation of Allah’s countless blessings. It is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Koran and Sunnah, shaping a Muslim’s perspective on life, faith, and personal growth. Gratitude in Islam is not merely an occasional expression of thanks; rather, it is a way of life that influences one’s actions, thoughts, and relationship with the Creator and His creation.

The Koran repeatedly emphasises the importance of gratitude, highlighting it as a trait of true believers and a means of drawing closer to Allah. One of the key verses that reflects this is: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favour; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.” (Koran-14:7)

This ayah demonstrates that gratitude is not only an obligation but also a source of divine blessings and abundance. Allah promises to reward those who show gratitude with more of His favours, whether in the form of material wealth, spiritual contentment, or inner peace.

I suppose it is human nature to complain and whine about what one considers to be the negatives in life; complaining about what we don’t have rather than appreciating what we do have. This is considered a gross misconduct in Islam.

The Koran contrasts gratitude with ingratitude, warning against its consequences. In Surah Ar-Rahman, Allah repeatedly asks: “Then which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?” (Koran, 55:13)

This rhetorical question serves as a reminder of the countless blessings bestowed upon humanity, encouraging reflection and appreciation.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was the perfect example of gratitude in action. Despite facing immense hardships, he constantly expressed thankfulness to Allah in all circumstances. He would stand in prayer for long hours at night, and when asked why he exerted himself so much despite being promised Paradise, he replied: “Should I not be a grateful servant?” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1130)

This statement reflects the profound connection between gratitude and devotion in Islam. True gratitude is not limited to words; it is reflected in one's actions, prayers, and obedience to Allah.

Islam teaches that gratitude should be expressed in three ways:

• Gratitude of the heart (Shukr bil Qalb) – recognising and acknowledging Allah’s blessings internally, developing contentment, and avoiding envy or dissatisfaction with what one has

• Gratitude of the tongue (Shukr bil Lisan) – verbally expressing thanks to Allah by saying phrases such as Alhamdulillah (All praise be to Allah) and sharing positive words with others.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “The best remembrance is: There is no god but Allah, and the best supplication is: All praise is due to Allah.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 3800)

• Gratitude through actions (Shukr bil Jawarih) – using Allah’s blessings responsibly by performing righteous deeds, helping others, and living a life in accordance with Islamic teachings. This includes acts of worship, charity, and fulfilling obligations with sincerity

Gratitude brings numerous spiritual, psychological, and social benefits, including:

Increased barakah (Blessings): As mentioned in the Koran (14:7), sincere gratitude leads to an increase in provisions and wellbeing.

Gratitude helps in cultivating in one’s soul, a sense of peace and satisfaction, reducing stress and anxiety, giving one an inner contentment. As well one’s faith (iman) is strengthened when one recognises Allah’s favours.

Gratefulness also strengthens one’s reliance on Him and fosters a closer relationship to God. A grateful attitude fosters kindness, humility, and appreciation towards others, improving social interactions. No one wants to be around a complaining and ungrateful person.

Life is filled with challenges, and expressing gratitude in difficult times can be challenging. However, Islam encourages believers to maintain patience (sabr) and trust in Allah’s wisdom.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “Wondrous is the affair of the believer, for there is good for him in every situation: if he is given ease, he is grateful, and that is good for him; and if he is afflicted with hardship, he is patient, and that is good for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 2999)

This Hadith teaches that gratitude and patience go hand in hand, allowing a believer to find comfort and hope even in adversity.

Gratitude in Islam is a comprehensive and transformative practice that shapes a believer’s perspective on life. By acknowledging Allah’s blessings through the heart, tongue, and actions, Muslims can attain spiritual growth, inner peace, and divine rewards.

Cultivating gratitude allows one to focus on the positives in life, develop resilience in times of hardship, and strengthen the relationship with Allah. As we strive to embody gratitude, we are reminded of these powerful words:

“And whatever blessing you have – it is from Allah.” (Koran, 16:53)

Let us strive to be among those who constantly remember and thank Allah in all circumstances, seeking His pleasure and mercy.

The bombs have finally stopped in Palestine and for that we, the Muslims, are grateful and pray for continued ceasefire there and everywhere that bombs are blasting.

Bermuda, have a blessed week. As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam