Eating Habits in Islam

Eating Habits, Most obedient Muslims consider that Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) is their main role model of them, and all of his attitudes, as well as his everyday habit, will be implemented in Muslim daily life, whether it is obligatory or recommended.

1. Recite the Dua (supplication) before a meal

Since eating is a matter of worship, it begins with the name of Allah. The Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) said: “The devil considers food lawful for him when Allah’s name.... mentioned over it.” (Muslim) Muslims are to start their eating by making the following du’a (supplication): “O Allah! Bless the food You have bestowed upon us and protect us from the torment of hell. In the name of Allah we start.” 1 When a Muslim forgets to say this du’a before starting to eat, and remembers it after a while, he should say: “In the name of Allah before and after.”2 

2.  Recite the Dua after the Meal

After completing the meal, Muslims praise and thank Allah for the blessings that He bestowed upon them since it was the habit of the prophet. After finishing their meal, Muslims say the following du’a: “Praise be to Allah the One Who gave us the food and the drink....” 3

3. Never criticize the Food

Food should not be criticized for any reason, even if a person dislikes it. The Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) never criticized any food that was offered to him (PBUH). “The Prophet (PBUH) never criticized any food (he was invited to), but he used to eat it if he liked the food.....” 4

4. Eating Less

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Nothing is worse than a person who fills his stomach. It should be enough for the son of Adam to have a few bites to satisfy his hunger. If he wishes more, it should be One third for his food, one third for his liquids...” 5. 

Besides, overeating and wasting food and bad habits, are condemned according to the Qur’an ” O Children of Adam! Put on your adornment (decent proper dress) when you attend your Masjid at the time of every prayer. Eat and drink, but do not be extravagant......”6

5. Enjoying Meal Together

Having a meal with others brings about harmony and togetherness among people we acquaintance better such as Family members, best friends, colleagues, business clients, etc. The family members having daily meals at the same time and at the same table show a happy family and strengthen the family relationship more and good habits.

Reference:

1.(An-Nasa’i)  

2.(Tirmidhi & Abu Dawud)

3. (Tirmidhi & Abu Dawud)

4.(Sahih Bukhari)

5.(Tirmidhi & Ibn Majah)