Essence of Thanks Giving

Thanksgiving holiday is right around the corner. We all know about the celebrations and the fun this event brings us- but what is Thanksgiving? It is celebrated to honor the survival of the pilgrims who first arrived to the “New World” in September 6, 1621. This is an annual celebration where people thank God, and enjoy a big feast together. But for us Muslims, thanksgiving is a daily affair.

Muslims pray five times a day during which we thank God for our health, wealth, education, parents, electronics, water, a home, friends, and countless blessings. Islam doesn’t really have a specific day thanking God, as we are expected to thank Him several times every day. The very first chapter of Holy Qur’an starts with the phrase, “Alhumdulillah” which means “all praise belongs to God”. We are taught to be thankful throughout the day- upon waking up, stepping out of the house, or after having meals. In this way our entire life revolves around gratitude to God, the Almighty.

In another verse the Qur’an states, “Then seek sustenance from God, and worship Him, and be grateful to Him. Unto Him will you be brought back” (29:18). This means that God is the one who grants us everything. Therefore, He is the one who deserves thankfulness. Thus, we should first thank God then, we should respond with kindness. May God enable us to show gratitude towards Him for all His blessings. Amen. By Aiza Ahmad