SHUKR – شكر

Literally and Etymologically: The act of acknowledging a favour, appreciating it and expressing gratitude for that favour. Etymologically, it derives from the root sh-k-r (ش-ك-ر), which denotes overflowing with praise upon receiving beneficence, just as a plant flourishes and yields abundant fruit upon receiving water.

Furthermore, this root is also the source of the two names of Allah, Ash-Shakûr (The One Who rewards the slightest ‘amal as-sâlih with infinite, eternal ni’mahs and accepts the gratitude of His ‘abds) and Ash-Shâkir (The All-Appreciative). Thus, shukr is both a manifestation of the names Ash-Shakûr and Ash-Shâkir and a comprehensive response (shukr al-‘urfî) reflecting the manifestations of all the Beautiful Names of Allah throughout the universe.

As an Islamic Term: The profound feeling and external manifestation of thanks and gratitude to Allah for the continuous ni‘mahs He bestows upon creation, serving as the ultimate response of an ‘abd to his Creator. It encompasses recognising Al-Mun’im as the sole source of all khayr, appreciating the value of the ni‘mah received and directing one’s speech, actions and heart toward His absolute pleasure (ridhâ).

(Please refer to the Risale On Shukr and the compilation on Shukr.)