(242) Chapter: The Obligation of Gratitude

Allah the Exalted says: "Therefore, remember Me (by praying, glorifying). I will remember you, and be grateful to Me (for My countless Favours on you) and never be ungrateful to Me.'' (2:152) "If you give thanks (by accepting Faith and worshipping none but Allah), I will give you more (of My Blessings).'' (14:7) "And say: `All the praises and thanks be to Allah.''' (17:111) "And the close of their request will be: `Al-hamdu lillahi Rabbil-`alamin [All the praise is due to Allah, the Rubb of `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists)].''' (10:10) Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: On the Night of Al-Isra (the Night of Ascension) the Prophet (ﷺ) was presented with two drinking vessels: one full of wine and the other one full of milk. He looked at them. Then he took the vessel which was full of milk. Thereupon Jibril (Gabriel) said: "Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah) Who has guided you to that, which is in accord with Fitrah (i.e., Islamic Monotheism; pure nature of Islam). Had you selected wine, your people would have gone astray." [Muslim]. Commentary: This Hadith highlights the following points: 1. Islam is a religion which matches with the pure nature. Every sensible person accepts it instinctively. 2. One who is endowed with the capacity and aptitude to do good should praise Allah. 3. Wine is the root of all evils and for this reason has been regarded the "Mother of Vices''. 4. To take good omen from agreeable signs is Mustahabb (desirable).