Dua Before Eating: Starting Your Meal With Barakah

Eating is a blessing that Allah grants daily, and Islam teaches us to honor this blessing by beginning meals with the beautiful Sunnah dua. Saying the Dua Before Eating keeps the heart grateful, brings barakah to the food, and protects us from unseen harm.

The Authentic Dua Before Eating

Arabic:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى بَرَكَةِ اللَّهِ

Transliteration:
Bismillāhi wa ‘alā barakatillāh.

Translation:
In the name of Allah and with the blessings of Allah.

If someone forgets to say it at the start, the Prophet ﷺ taught us to say:

“Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirahu.”
In the name of Allah, at the beginning and at the end.

Why the Dua Before Eating Matters

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said that when a person forgets to mention Allah’s name, Shaytan partakes in the meal. By saying Bismillah, you block all negative spiritual influence and invite blessings into your food.

Key Benefits

• Barakah in food—even small portions feel satisfying. 
• Protection from Shaytan—he cannot join the meal. 
• Mindful eating—you remember the Giver before enjoying His gift. 
• Following Sunnah—turning a daily habit into worship. 

Sunnah Etiquettes Before eating

• Wash hands properly. 
• Sit calmly and mention Allah’s name. 
• Start with the right hand. 
• Begin with food closest to you. 

During the Meal

• Eat slowly and avoid wasting food. 
• Do not criticize food. 
• Share meals when possible—sharing increases blessings. 

After the Meal

• Recite the post-meal dua:
  “Alhamdulillahi allathee at’amana wa saqana…” 
• Wash hands and rinse mouth. 

Final Thoughts

The Dua Before Eating is a simple Sunnah that transforms your meal into an act of worship. It keeps your heart connected to Allah and fills your life with gratitude and barakah.

If you want to learn more duas, Quran recitation, and Islamic studies online with certified tutors, visit:

www.fazailequranonline.com
www.uqurantutors.com