Hadith Text

Abu Hurayra reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Allah does not thank the person who does not thank people."

Source Reference

Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 218

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith establishes a profound connection between gratitude to Allah and gratitude to His creation. The one who fails to acknowledge the favors of people and express thanks to them demonstrates a deficiency in recognizing blessings at their fundamental level.

The scholars explain that showing gratitude to people for their kindness is part of showing gratitude to Allah, for He is the ultimate source of all blessings. When someone does good to you, they are merely a means through which Allah's favor reaches you.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this hadith indicates the importance of acknowledging favors and returning them appropriately. The one who is ungrateful to people shows that they do not properly understand the nature of blessings and their source.

Al-Munawi adds that thanking people includes recognizing their efforts, speaking well of them, and reciprocating their kindness when possible. This attitude cultivates love and harmony within the Muslim community.

The hadith serves as a reminder that our relationship with Allah is reflected in our relationships with His creation. True gratitude to Allah necessarily manifests as gratitude to those through whom His blessings come.

Practical Application

Express thanks verbally for even small favors. Acknowledge people's efforts and kindness. Return favors when possible. Recognize that all blessings ultimately come from Allah. Develop a habit of gratitude in all aspects of life.