Have we ever stopped to consider how many blessings are already surrounding us right now? Why do we overlook the blessings we already have, while constantly chasing what we don’t?
These are questions we rarely take time to reflect on. Instead, we often focus on what we don’t have, forgetting everything we do have. The simple fact that we are alive, breathing, and have another day to seek forgiveness and work towards Jannah is a huge blessing.
“Barakah” literally translates as “blessing” or “divine benediction.” In Islamic theology, it refers to a special quality of divine blessing and spiritual abundance from Allah (AWJ) that brings growth, goodness, and prosperity beyond material measure – manifesting in food, time, knowledge, wealth, and relationships – which believers seek through pious actions, Quranic recitation, following the Prophet (SAW’s) example, and ethical living, with the understanding that this blessed state can be transferred between people, places, and objects.
Barakah is not about having more. It’s the blessing that makes what we have feel enough. When Barakah is in something, it brings peace and contentment, even in the smallest of things. Our blessings may come in different forms – good health, a roof over our heads, family, food on the table – but we often fail to recognise them. We take these things for granted, forgetting that many people around the world don’t have the same. Even when we feel we have little, there’s always something to be grateful for. If we reflect, we will find at least 10 things to be thankful for.
It’s not just about wealth, success, or time; it’s about the benefit, goodness, and satisfaction we derive from what we already have. So, how can we open our hearts to recognise the Barakah that enriches our lives every day?
1. Understanding Barakah as a Gift from Allah (AWJ)
The first step is recognising that Barakah is a gift from Allah (AWJ). Everything we have – big or small – is from Allah (AWJ’s) mercy. The things we take for granted may be someone else’s greatest wish.
As Allah (AWJ) says in the Qur’an:
“And whatever you have of favour – it is from Allah.” (Qur’an 16:53)
2. Barakah in What We Have
The second step is to understand how Barakah enhances what we have. When Barakah is placed on something, even limited things can feel abundant. It’s not about the quantity, but about the immense value and impact of the things we already have.
3. Recognising Day-to-Day Blessings
The third step is to stop overlooking the everyday blessings in our lives. Even the ability to read and reflect on this blog is a blessing. We often remember to say “Alhamdulillah” for the big things, but what about the “small” things? The comfort of a home, having necessities, or family – these are all blessings that deserve our gratitude.
As Allah (AWJ) says in the Qur’an:
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favour upon you.” (Qur’an, 14:7)
Gratitude unlocks more Barakah, for when we show sincere appreciation for what we have, Allah (AWJ) increases His blessings upon us.
4. How Can We Acknowledge and Appreciate Barakah?
- Show gratitude to the One who has given us everything.
- Make a list of the blessings we have that we often overlook.
- Appreciate the small moments in life.
- Make dua for these blessings to remain and for us to be mindful of them.
- Share your blessings by giving in charity, helping others, and spreading kindness, which only increases Barakah.
Remember, we must open our hearts to the blessings around us. By recognising and appreciating the Barakah in our lives, we invite even more blessings from Allah (AWJ) into our hearts.
Let’s start today by reflecting, appreciating and sharing. In this blessed month of Ramadan, let’s show more gratitude and share our blessings with others.
Disclaimer: This content has been compiled for informational purposes only and is provided in good faith. While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure originality and accuracy, some material may be derived from publicly available sources. No copyright infringement is intended. This content does not constitute legal advice, and MCEC accepts no liability for any errors, omissions, or reliance on this material. If you believe any content requires attribution or removal, please contact us; [email protected]
Researched, organised and revised by Tahiyat Islam