Manners of Eating (Part 1)

Our beloved Prophet (S.A.W) has practically shown us every aspect of life, from birth to burial. If we follow the right path, as shown by our Holy Prophet (S.A.W), then Allah (S.W.T) will shower his blessings and mercy upon us.

Preparation before eating

Wash hands and mouth: Wash both hands three times up to the wrists and take water in mouth and gargle. After washing don’t wipe the hands.  (Shamail-e-Tirmizi)

Benefits: All of you know that to avoid bacteria, washing is necessary. Islam teaches us to wash hands before eating and not to wipe after washing, as we will get bacteria again and washing will be pointless. By gargling and washing the lips, the mouth will be cleaned completely. It will also moist the throat enabling food to be consumed easily.

Eating

Eating Together: Our Beloved Prophet (S.A.W) said that those who eat together shall be blessed by Allah (S.W.T)’s forgiveness and there will be ‘Barkat’ in their food.

Benefits: Eating together will allow the food to be distributed according to each individual’s needs, rather than some having more food and some less, thus avoiding wastage of food. By the custom of eating together, the equality and looking after one another’s needs will be cultivated. Above all mutual love and tenderness will be encouraged.

Ibn-e-Majah (R.A) reports: “Someone said to the Beloved Prophet (S.A.W),‘Ya Rasoolullah (S.A.W)! We eat but do not get full satisfaction.’ Prophet (S.A.W) replied:  ‘Perhaps you eat sitting separately.

Eat sitting together and recite Bismillah as it will bring to you Abundance in food.’”