Islam teaches Muslims to remember Allah in every part of life, including eating food. Before eating, Muslims recite a beautiful dua to thank Allah for providing رزق (sustenance). This Sunnah brings blessings into food and protects from Shaytan.
Dua in Arabic
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ
If forgotten at the beginning:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَوَّلَهُ وَآخِرَهُ
Urdu Translation
“اللہ کے نام سے شروع کرتا ہوں۔”
اگر شروع میں بھول جائیں:
“اللہ کے نام کے ساتھ، شروع میں بھی اور آخر میں بھی۔”
English Translation
“In the name of Allah.”
If forgotten at first:
“In the name of Allah, at its beginning and at its end.”
Meaning
This dua means that Muslims begin eating by taking Allah’s name and thanking Him for the food He has provided.
Explanation
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught Muslims to say “Bismillah” before eating. This simple phrase invites blessings into food and prevents Shaytan from sharing in the meal.
Islam encourages good manners while eating, including washing hands, eating with the right hand, and thanking Allah.
Benefits
- Brings barakah (blessings) in food
- Protects from Shaytan
- Follows the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
- Increases gratitude towards Allah
- Creates good Islamic habits in children
When to Recite
This dua should be recited:
- Before eating any meal or snack
- Before drinking water or juice
- At the beginning of gatherings involving food
Hadith Reference
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“When one of you eats, let him mention the name of Allah.”
Reference:
Sunan Abi Dawood 3767
Islamic Importance
Food is one of Allah’s greatest blessings. Islam teaches Muslims not to waste food and always thank Allah before and after eating. Reciting this dua strengthens gratitude and reminds believers that all رزق comes from Allah alone.
FAQs
What if someone forgets to say Bismillah?
They should say:
“بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَوَّلَهُ وَآخِرَهُ”
Can children practice this dua?
Yes, it is one of the easiest Islamic duas for children.
Is saying Bismillah Sunnah?
Yes, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ regularly recited it before eating.
Does this dua bring blessings?
Yes, it brings barakah and protection from Shaytan.
Conclusion
The Dua Before Eating is a short yet powerful Sunnah. It teaches gratitude, brings blessings into meals, and strengthens the habit of remembering Allah in daily life. Every Muslim should make this dua part of their everyday routine.