(242) Chapter: The Obligation of Gratitude

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Any matter of importance which is not begun with Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah) remains defective."

[Abu Dawud].

Commentary: There is another Hadith to the effect that every important work which is not started with the invocation "Bismillah'' is devoid of Allah's Grace. Sheikh Al-Albani's opinion about these two Ahadith is that their text is confused and its authority is weak. He has, however, regarded it as acceptable "Mursal'' (Ahadith narrated by a student of a Companion deleting the Companion's name). (For details please see Irwa-ul-Ghalil, vol. I, 1,2). In any case, it is desirable to begin every good work with the Glorious Name of Allah and His Praise.