Gratitude (Shukr) in Islam

Suyuti1 · Jun 09, 2025, 01:19 PM

Gratitude (shukr) is a central virtue in Islam, expressing thankfulness to Allah for His countless blessings. It strengthens faith and draws a believer closer to Allah's mercy.

Allah commands:

وَٱلَّذِينَ يَشْكُرُونَ۟ يَشْكُرُونَ لِنَفْسِهِمْ
"But those who are grateful, He [Allah] is grateful to them."
— Surah Luqman (31:12)

The Prophet ﷺ said:

"مَن لَا يَشْكُرِ ٱلنَّاسَ لَا يَشْكُرِ ٱللَّهَ"
"He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah."
— Sunan Abu Dawood (4811)

The companions exemplified gratitude. Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA), known for his humility, continuously praised Allah and thanked Him even during trials. Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) would say, "How many favors of Allah do you deny?" reminding himself to stay thankful.

Gratitude is shown through worship, remembrance (dhikr), and using blessings in ways pleasing to Allah. It transforms hardship into ease and invites more blessings.

The Qur'an warns against ingratitude, which leads to loss:

وَلَئِن شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ
"If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]."
— Surah Ibrahim (14:7)

Cultivating shukr, as the Sahaba did, nurtures contentment and a joyful heart.

Gratitude (Shukr) in Islam

Suyuti1

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