The Benefit of Reminders

السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته

Reminding others is not just an act of kindness—it is a profound responsibility that carries immense benefits for both the one delivering the message and those receiving it. In Islam, reminders serve three key purposes:

Fulfilling one’s responsibility: By reminding others, we absolve ourselves of the duty Allah has entrusted to us. It is a means of freeing ourselves from blame before Him. Allah says: “قَالُوا۟ مَعْذِرَةً إِلَىٰ رَبِّكُمْ وَلَعَلَّهُمْ يَتَّقُونَ ---- (They replied), to be absolved before your Lord and perhaps they may fear Him.” (Al-A’raf: 164).

Hoping for benefit to those being reminded: The ultimate goal is that the reminder touches hearts, inspires change, and guides people closer to Allah. Every sincere word can plant the seeds of taqwa (God-consciousness) in someone’s heart.

Establishing proof against the people: Reminders ensure that people are given the opportunity to reflect and respond, leaving no excuse before Allah. As Allah says: “رُّسُلًۭا مُّبَشِّرِينَ وَمُنذِرِينَ لِئَلَّا يَكُونَ لِلنَّاسِ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ حُجَّةٌۢ بَعْدَ ٱلرُّسُلِ ۚ ---- Messengers as bearers of good news and as warners, so that mankind will have no argument against Allah after the messengers.” (An-Nisa: 165).

The mentioned benefits align with the prophetic path, as the prophets always prioritized guidance, hoping for good even when faced with rejection. Their method reminds us that silence is not always an option. It takes courage and sincerity to fulfill this duty, even when it is uncomfortable.

Ultimately, enjoining good and forbidding evil builds a morally upright and God-conscious society. By reminding one another, we extend an act of mercy that benefits both the giver and the receiver. As Allah reminds us: “وَذَكِّرْ فَإِنَّ ٱلذِّكْرَىٰ تَنفَعُ ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ ---- So remind, for the reminder benefits the believers.” (Adh-Dhariyat: 55).

في امان الله.

Reference: Page 351 of "دفع إيهام الإضطراب عن آيات الكتب"