Dua before eating

“Bismillah” is said before starting to eat. If it is forgotten at the beginning, then when it is remembered one says “Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirah” (in the name of Allah at its beginning and at its end).

Beginning a meal with “Bismillah” brings barakah to the food and keeps Shaytan away from the table.

This dua is based on the Quran and hadith sources below.

• HadithSahih al-Bukhari, 5376; Sahih Muslim, 2022

  Umar ibn Abi Salamah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Say Bismillah and eat from what is in front of you”.

Other duas connected to this topic.

• Dua after eating

  Praise be to Allah, who has fed us, given us drink, and made us Muslims.

Common questions about this dua.

• What should be said before eating?

  Saying “Bismillah” before starting to eat is a Sunnah.

• What should I do if I forget to say Bismillah at the start of a meal?

  As soon as it is remembered one says “Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirah”.