Dua Before Eating Meaning, Arabic Text and Hadith
In Islam, saying a “dua before eating” is a meaningful practice that involves reciting a prayer or supplication before meals. This moment of reflection is rooted in gratitude and mindfulness, acknowledging the blessings of sustenance and provision.
Dua Before Eating in Arabic
Eat and Drink with your right hand starting with:
بِسْمِ اللَّه
Transliteration
Bismillaah
Meaning in English
In the Name of Allah
If you forget to say Bismillah, then say:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ وَآخِرِه
Transliteration
Bismillaahifee ‘awwalihi wa ‘aakhirihi.
Meaning in English
In the Name of Allah, in the beginning and in the end.
[Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1858; Abu Dawood, 3767; Ibn Majah, 3264. Classed as saheeh by al-Albani in Saheeh Sunan Abi Dawood, 3202]
READ ALSO: 9 Dua After Salah (Prayer) Meaning in English and Arabic Text
Texts Supporting the above
Umar ibn Abi Salamah RA said: I was a young boy in the care of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), and my hand used to wander all over the platter (of food). The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to me, “O young boy, say Bismillaah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is directly in front of you.”
[Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5376; Muslim, 2022]
From Abu Huraira RA that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “You should eat with your right hand and drink with your right hand, take with your right hand and give with your right hand, because Shaytaan eats with his left hand and drinks with his left hand and gives with his left hand and takes with his left hand.”
[as-Saheehah No. 1236]
From Abdullaah bin Mas’ood RA who said the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Whoever forgets to mention Allah when he first begins to eat should say when he remembers:
‘Bismillaah fee awwalihee wa Aakhirihee.’ (In the name of Allah in the beginning and the end); because after having said Bismillaah he is receiving new food, and preventing the evil Shaytaan from taking from the food.”
[as-Saheehah 198]
The Significance of Saying “Bismillah” Before Eating in Islam
Saying “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) before eating is a deeply meaningful practice in Islam, offering several key benefits and reasons:
- Acknowledging Allah’s Provision: Starting with “Bismillah” expresses gratitude and recognizes the food as a blessing from Allah.
- Seeking Blessings: It seeks Allah’s blessings on the food, invoking His favor and protection.
- Following the Prophet’s Example: Saying “Bismillah” before eating is a tradition established by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), making it a rewarding and righteous act that brings us closer to Allah.
Etiquettes of Eating in Islam
Islam emphasizes the importance of mindful eating, with guidelines that foster gratitude, moderation, and respect. Here are key principles to follow:
- Begin with Bismillah: Start with “Bismillah” to acknowledge Allah’s blessings.
- Use Your Right Hand: Eat with your right hand, as encouraged by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
- Use Three Fingers: Use your first three fingers to eat, avoiding your pinky finger and thumb.
- Eat in Moderation: Fill one-third of your stomach with food, one-third with water, and leave one-third for air.
- Eat Small Bites: Take small bites and chew thoroughly for better digestion.
- Correcting Forgotten Bismillah: If you forget to say “Bismillah,” say “Bismillah awwalahu wa akhirahu” afterward.
- Avoid Blowing on Hot Food: Let hot food cool naturally; avoid blowing on it.
- Sit While Eating: Sit while eating, as it’s considered more dignified.
- Share Food: Share meals with others, promoting communal eating and kindness.
- Thank Allah: Say “Alhamdulillah” after meals to express gratitude.
- Lick Your Fingers: Lick your fingers to appreciate the blessings in leftover food.
- Avoid Wastefulness: Use resources wisely, avoiding food waste, as emphasized by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
By embracing these etiquettes, you’ll cultivate a deeper appreciation for the blessings of food and the importance of mindful eating.
