What is the meaning of the Hadith: "Make things easy and do not make them difficult; give glad tidings and do not make people averse"? And what is the intended ease referred to in it, and does it involve abandoning some commands and prohibitions?

Facilitation encompasses what the Lawgiver has lightened and permitted, such as the alleviation of some obligations in case of inability, in matters that are not obligatory, and in dealings with people. It also includes choosing the easier option in acts of worship and transactions, for "the Prophet, may Allah's prayers and peace be upon him, was never given a choice between two matters except that he chose the easier of them, as long as it was not a sin." Facilitation is مطلوب (desirable) because it is gentler on the soul. If there are two paths, one easy and one difficult, it is better to take the easy one. If there are two types of water, one cold and one hot, and the latter is easier for ablution, then it is better to use it. This is similar to hastening the breaking of the fast and delaying the pre-dawn meal, which is part of facilitating the fast. However, if an act of worship cannot be completed except with difficulty that does not negate it, this increases the reward. And "do not make things difficult" means do not take difficult paths in worship and transactions, for facilitation does not mean abandoning commands or committing prohibitions except with a legitimate dispensation.