The Etiquette of Eating

• Before starting a meal recite: "O Allah! Bless the food You provided us and save us from the punishment of the hellfire. In the name of Allah." (Ibn-us-Sunni) "The devil considers food lawful for him when Allah's name is not mentioned over it." (Muslim)

• After finishing a meal recite: "Praise be to Allah Who has fed us and given us drink, and made us Muslims." (Abu Da'ud, At-Tirmidhi, An-Nasa'i & Ibn Majah)

• "When one of you eats, he must not wipe his hand till he licks it, or give it to someone to lick." (Agreed Upon)

• "None of you should drink standing." (Muslim)

• "When any of you eats, he should eat with his right hand, and when he drinks, he should drink with his right hand, for the devil eats and drinks with his left hand." (Muslim)

• "Eat of the dish what is nearer to you." (Bukhari)

• "When you drink water, do not breath in the vessel." (Bukhari)

• The Prophet (s) used to take three breaths while drinking (Bukhari) because, "It is better thirst quenching, healthier and more wholesome." (Muslim)

• Narrated Abu Juhaifah: "Allah's Apostle (s) said, "I do not take my meals while leaning (against something.)" (Bukhari)

• Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (s) never criticised any food (presented to him) but he would eat it if he liked it; otherwise he would leave it (without expressing his dislike). (Bukhari)