Avery Collins
According to the teachings of the Salaf, the righteous predecessors of Islam, it is highly recommended to begin the day with specific supplications and remembrance of Allah. Before breakfast, Muslims are encouraged to recite certain phrases to express gratitude, seek blessings, and start the day on a spiritual note. Among these, one may say Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) to acknowledge His countless blessings, and Bismillah (In the name of Allah) before eating as a way to seek His guidance and protection. Additionally, reciting the morning adhkar (remembrance) and seeking refuge in Allah from any harm or evil is emphasized, aligning the heart and mind with faith and reliance on Him throughout the day. These practices not only foster a sense of spiritual connection but also instill mindfulness and gratitude in daily routines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Supplication (Du'a) Before Eating | "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) - This is a common practice to begin any action, including eating, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). |
| Gratitude (Shukr) | Expressing gratitude to Allah for providing the food is emphasized. A common phrase is: "Al-hamdu lillahil-lathee at'amani hadha wa razaqnihi min ghayri hawlin minnee wa la quwwah" (All praise is due to Allah who has fed me this and provided it for me without any power or might from myself). |
| Intention (Niyyah) | Having the intention to eat for the sake of Allah and to maintain one's health to worship Him is essential. |
| Moderation | The Salaf encouraged eating in moderation, avoiding overeating, as it is disliked in Islam. |
| Sharing and Generosity | Sharing food with others, especially family and guests, is highly recommended, following the example of the Prophet and the righteous predecessors. |
| Avoiding Waste | Wasting food is discouraged, and the Salaf were known for their mindfulness in consuming and preserving food. |
| Remembering the Less Fortunate | While eating, remembering those who are hungry and in need, and making supplications for them is a practice attributed to the pious predecessors. |
| Eating with the Right Hand | Using the right hand for eating is a Sunnah, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to eat and drink with his right hand. |
| Eating Together | The Salaf valued communal meals, believing that eating together increases love and brotherhood among Muslims. |
| Supplication After Eating | After breakfast, it is recommended to say: "Al-hamdu lillahi hamdan katheeran tayyibah mubarak-an feehi ghayri makfiyyin wa la muwada'in wa la mustaghnaa 'anhu rabbanaa" (All praise is due to Allah, abundant, pure, and blessed praise, which no one can adequately fulfill, nor be independent of, nor be dispensed with, our Lord). |
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What You'll Learn
- Morning Supplications: Recite specific Quranic verses and prayers upon waking, as practiced by the Salaf
- Gratitude to Allah: Express thanks for a new day and the blessings of life
- Seeking Forgiveness: Begin the day by asking Allah for forgiveness and mercy
- Protection from Evil: Say prayers to seek refuge from Shaytan and harm
- Intention Setting: Declare sincere intentions for worship, actions, and daily activities
Morning Supplications: Recite specific Quranic verses and prayers upon waking, as practiced by the Salaf
Upon waking, the Salaf (the early generations of Muslims) emphasized the importance of beginning the day with remembrance of Allah and seeking His blessings. One of the key practices is to recite specific Quranic verses and supplications immediately after waking, even before engaging in any other activity, including breakfast. This act of devotion sets a spiritual tone for the day and aligns the heart with gratitude and dependence on Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the righteous predecessors prioritized these morning supplications as a means of protection, guidance, and spiritual nourishment.
One of the essential supplications to recite upon waking is the one taught by the Prophet (peace be upon him): *"Alhamdulillah illathi ahyana ba'da ma amaatana wa ilayhin-nushur"*, which translates to *"Praise be to Allah who gave us life after causing us to die, and to Him is the resurrection"*. This statement acknowledges Allah's mercy in returning the soul after sleep, which is likened to a minor death. It is a reminder of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of the Hereafter, encouraging one to start the day with mindfulness and purpose.
Following this, it is highly recommended to recite *Surah Al-Fatihah* (Chapter 1 of the Quran), known as the Opening Chapter, and *Ayat Al-Kursi* (2:255), the Verse of the Throne. *Surah Al-Fatihah* is a comprehensive prayer seeking guidance, praise, and sustenance from Allah, while *Ayat Al-Kursi* is a powerful verse that affirms Allah's sovereignty, power, and protection. Reciting these verses in the morning fortifies the believer with spiritual strength and safeguards against harm throughout the day.
Additionally, the Salaf would recite the last two verses of *Surah Al-Baqarah* (2:285-286), which contain a supplication for ease, forgiveness, and protection from the burden of sins. These verses are a profound expression of reliance on Allah and a plea for His mercy and assistance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, *"Whoever recites them in a night, they will suffice him, and whoever recites them in his house, Satan will not enter it for three nights"*. While this is often associated with the night, its benefits extend to morning recitation as well.
Another important practice is to seek refuge in Allah from the evils of the day by saying: *"A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq"*, meaning *"I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created"*. This supplication, taught by the Prophet (peace be upon him), is a means of protection from any harm or adversity one might encounter during the day. It reflects the believer's trust in Allah's power and His ability to safeguard His servants.
Finally, it is customary to recite the morning adhkar (remembrances), which include a series of supplications such as *"Subhanallah"*, *"Alhamdulillah"*, and *"Allahu Akbar"* thirty-three times each, followed by the testimony of faith (*"La ilaha illallah"*) and a final supplication for forgiveness and blessings. These adhkar, as practiced by the Salaf, are a means of purifying the heart, accumulating good deeds, and maintaining a constant connection with Allah from the very start of the day. By engaging in these morning supplications, one follows the Sunnah and emulates the righteous example of the early Muslims, ensuring a day filled with barakah (blessings) and divine guidance.
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Gratitude to Allah: Express thanks for a new day and the blessings of life
Before partaking in the first meal of the day, the Salaf (the pious predecessors) emphasized the importance of beginning with gratitude to Allah. This practice not only aligns with Islamic teachings but also fosters a mindset of thankfulness and mindfulness. One of the key expressions of gratitude is acknowledging the gift of a new day. Muslims are encouraged to say, *"Alhamdulillahil-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma ametana wa ilayhin-nushoor"* (Praise be to Allah who gave us life after causing us to die, and to Him is the resurrection). This supplication reminds us that each day is a new opportunity granted by Allah, a chance to seek His pleasure and fulfill our purpose. By starting the day with this remembrance, we affirm our dependence on Allah and our appreciation for the life He has bestowed upon us.
Another essential aspect of gratitude before breakfast is reflecting on the blessings of sustenance. The Salaf taught that recognizing the source of our food is a form of worship. Muslims are guided to say, *"Bismillah"* (In the name of Allah) before eating, acknowledging that the provision comes from Allah alone. This simple yet profound act shifts our focus from the physical act of eating to the spiritual act of thanking the Provider. It encourages us to appreciate not just the food itself but the entire process—from the growth of crops to the means by which it reaches our table—all of which are facilitated by Allah's mercy and wisdom.
Furthermore, expressing gratitude for the health and strength to enjoy the meal is a practice rooted in the teachings of the Salaf. Saying, *"Alhamdulillahilladhi at'amana wa saqana wa ja'alana muslimin"* (Praise be to Allah who has fed us and given us drink and made us Muslims) highlights our thankfulness for the ability to partake in nourishment. This supplication also reminds us of the greater blessing of being Muslims, a faith that guides us to recognize and appreciate every aspect of life. By verbalizing this gratitude, we cultivate a heart that is constantly aware of Allah's favors, both seen and unseen.
In addition to these supplications, the Salaf encouraged a broader reflection on the blessings of life as a whole. Before breakfast, one may pause to consider the countless gifts Allah has provided—health, family, shelter, and the opportunity to worship Him. This holistic gratitude transforms the act of eating into a moment of spiritual connection. It is narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, *"If one of you eats, let him mention Allah's name (say Bismillah) at the beginning, and if he forgets to mention Allah's name at the beginning, then he should say, 'Bismillahi fee awalihi wa akhirihi' (In the name of Allah at its beginning and at its end)"* (Abu Dawud). This practice ensures that gratitude remains at the core of our daily activities.
Lastly, the Salaf emphasized that gratitude is not merely a verbal expression but a state of the heart that should manifest in actions. By starting the day with thankfulness, we are inspired to use the blessings of life in ways that please Allah. This includes sharing our sustenance with others, using our health to perform good deeds, and dedicating our day to His service. Thus, the act of expressing gratitude before breakfast becomes a foundation for a day lived in consciousness of Allah, aligning our intentions and actions with His will. In this way, gratitude to Allah for a new day and the blessings of life becomes a transformative practice, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Salaf.
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![The Book Of Remembrances [Kitab Al-Adhkar]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71UP2TKLFeL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Seeking Forgiveness: Begin the day by asking Allah for forgiveness and mercy
Beginning the day by seeking forgiveness from Allah is a profound practice rooted in the teachings of the Salaf, the pious predecessors of Islam. It is a way to purify the heart, acknowledge one’s shortcomings, and start the day with a sense of humility and dependence on Allah. The Salaf emphasized the importance of seeking forgiveness as a means of spiritual renewal, and this act is particularly significant before engaging in any activity, including breakfast. By doing so, one aligns their intentions and actions with the pleasure of Allah, ensuring that the day begins on a righteous note.
One of the key supplications to recite before breakfast, as recommended by the Salaf, is the seeking of forgiveness. A simple yet powerful dua is: *"Astaghfirullahil-ladhi la ilaha illa Huwa, al-Hayyul-Qayyum, wa atubu ilayh"* (I seek forgiveness from Allah, there is no deity but Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of all existence, and I turn to Him in repentance). This supplication acknowledges Allah’s uniqueness and sovereignty while expressing a sincere desire to rectify past mistakes. It is a reminder that every day is an opportunity to cleanse oneself of sins and strive for spiritual growth.
Another practice encouraged by the Salaf is to reflect on the mercy of Allah while seeking forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught his companions to say: *"Subhanaka Allahumma wa bihamdika, ashhadu an la ilaha illa anta, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk"* (Glory be to You, O Allah, and with Your praise, I bear witness that there is no deity but You, I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You in repentance). This dua combines glorification, affirmation of Tawheed (monotheism), and repentance, creating a comprehensive act of worship that prepares the heart for the day ahead.
The act of seeking forgiveness before breakfast is not merely a ritual but a transformative practice. It encourages self-awareness and accountability, prompting the individual to reflect on their actions and intentions. The Salaf believed that starting the day with repentance fosters a mindset of constant improvement and reliance on Allah’s mercy. It also serves as a shield against arrogance, as one acknowledges their imperfections and seeks Allah’s guidance and forgiveness.
Incorporating this practice into daily life requires mindfulness and consistency. It is advisable to recite these supplications with sincerity and presence of heart, rather than merely uttering the words. The Salaf emphasized the importance of *ikhlas* (sincerity) in all acts of worship, as Allah accepts only what is done purely for His sake. By making seeking forgiveness a habitual part of the morning routine, one not only follows the Sunnah but also nurtures a deep spiritual connection with Allah.
In conclusion, seeking forgiveness before breakfast, as practiced by the Salaf, is a powerful way to begin the day with spiritual clarity and divine blessings. It is a reminder of Allah’s infinite mercy and an opportunity to renew one’s commitment to righteousness. By integrating these supplications into daily life, Muslims can emulate the piety and devotion of the Salaf, ensuring that every day is lived in conscious obedience to Allah.
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Protection from Evil: Say prayers to seek refuge from Shaytan and harm
According to the teachings of the Salaf, seeking protection from evil, particularly from Shaytan (Satan) and potential harm, is an essential practice for Muslims, especially during moments of transition like before meals. The Salaf emphasized the importance of invoking Allah’s protection through specific supplications (du'a) to fortify oneself against evil influences. One of the most recommended practices before breakfast is to recite prayers that seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan and any harm he may cause. This act not only safeguards the individual spiritually but also aligns the heart with gratitude and dependence on Allah.
One of the primary supplications to say before breakfast is the seeking of refuge in Allah from Shaytan. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught Muslims to say: "أَعُوذُ بِاللهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ" (A'udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajeem), which translates to "I seek refuge in Allah from Satan, the accursed." This phrase is a powerful shield against the whispers and schemes of Shaytan, who seeks to distract and mislead individuals from righteousness. Reciting this before eating ensures that the act of consuming food is not tainted by his influence, allowing the meal to be a pure and blessed act of sustenance.
In addition to seeking refuge from Shaytan, the Salaf also encouraged Muslims to recite "بِسْمِ اللهِ" (Bismillah), meaning "In the name of Allah," before beginning any activity, including eating. This declaration acknowledges Allah’s sovereignty and seeks His blessings and protection. By starting the meal with Bismillah, one places the act of eating under Allah’s guardianship, thereby safeguarding it from any evil or harm. This practice is not only a means of protection but also a way to cultivate mindfulness and gratitude toward the Provider of all sustenance.
Another important supplication to recite before breakfast is "اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ" (Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min al-hammi wa al-hazan, wa a'udhu bika min al-'ajzi wa al-kasal, wa a'udhu bika min al-jubni wa al-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabat id-dayni wa qahri ar-rijal), which translates to "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and sorrow, weakness and laziness, miserliness and cowardice, the burden of debts, and from being overpowered by men." While this du'a is broader in scope, it includes protection from internal and external harms that Shaytan may exploit. Reciting it before breakfast reinforces one’s spiritual defenses, ensuring that the day begins with a sense of security and reliance on Allah.
Finally, the Salaf emphasized the importance of ending the meal with gratitude and seeking further protection. After breakfast, it is recommended to say: "الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي أَطْعَمَنِي هَذَا وَرَزَقَنِيهِ مِنْ غَيْرِ حَوْلٍ مِنِّي وَلَا قُوَّةٍ" (Alhamdulillah il-lathee at’amani hatha wa razaqnihi min ghayri hawlin minni wa la quwwah), meaning "Praise be to Allah who fed me this and provided it for me without any power or might from me." This expression of gratitude not only acknowledges Allah’s provision but also reinforces the protection sought before the meal. By framing the act of eating within the context of Allah’s mercy and guardianship, one ensures continuous protection from evil throughout the day.
In summary, the Salaf taught that seeking protection from Shaytan and harm before breakfast is a vital spiritual practice. By reciting supplications like "A'udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajeem", "Bismillah", and broader prayers for protection, one fortifies oneself against evil influences and begins the day with mindfulness and gratitude. These practices not only safeguard the individual but also deepen their connection with Allah, making every meal an act of worship and reliance on Him.
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Intention Setting: Declare sincere intentions for worship, actions, and daily activities
Before partaking in breakfast, the Salaf (the early generations of Muslims) emphasized the importance of setting sincere intentions as a foundational act of worship. Intention setting, or *niyyah*, is a cornerstone of Islamic practice, as it aligns one’s actions with the purpose of seeking Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Actions are but by intentions, and every person will have only that which they intended” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Therefore, declaring one’s intentions before beginning the day, including before breakfast, is a way to ensure that even mundane activities are transformed into acts of worship. This practice fosters mindfulness and a constant awareness of Allah’s presence in every moment.
To set intentions before breakfast, one should begin by verbally or mentally declaring their purpose for eating. For example, a sincere intention could be: “I eat this meal to sustain my body so that I may worship Allah with strength and fulfill my responsibilities as His servant.” This simple act elevates the act of eating from a mere physical necessity to an act of obedience to Allah. The Salaf encouraged such mindfulness, as it cultivates gratitude and prevents one from falling into heedlessness. By acknowledging that the food is a provision from Allah, one reinforces their dependence on Him and their commitment to use His blessings righteously.
In addition to intentions for eating, the Salaf advised broadening this practice to encompass daily activities. Before starting the day, one should declare intentions for work, study, or interactions with others. For instance, one might say, “I engage in my work today to provide for my family and contribute to society, seeking Allah’s reward and approval.” This habit ensures that every action, no matter how small, is performed with the consciousness of Allah’s watchfulness. The Salaf believed that such intention setting purifies the heart and protects against worldly distractions, keeping one focused on the ultimate goal of attaining Paradise.
Furthermore, intention setting before breakfast can serve as a daily reminder of one’s broader spiritual goals. It is an opportunity to renew one’s commitment to following the Sunnah, seeking knowledge, and striving for excellence in all endeavors. For example, one might declare, “I begin this day with the intention of following the Prophet’s guidance, seeking forgiveness for my shortcomings, and striving to be a source of goodness in the world.” This practice not only aligns daily activities with Islamic principles but also fosters a sense of purpose and direction.
Finally, the Salaf emphasized the importance of sincerity in intention setting. It is not enough to merely recite words; the heart must be present and genuine. One should reflect on the purpose behind their intentions and strive to maintain this awareness throughout the day. By doing so, even the simplest acts, like eating breakfast, become opportunities to draw closer to Allah. This consistent practice of intention setting, as advocated by the Salaf, transforms daily life into a continuous act of worship, ensuring that every moment is lived in accordance with Islamic teachings.
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Frequently asked questions
The Salaf recommended saying "بِسْمِ اللَّهِ" (Bismillah), meaning "In the name of Allah," before eating or drinking.
Yes, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught to say "الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي أَطْعَمَنِي هَذَا وَرَزَقَنِيهِ مِنْ غَيْرِ حَوْلٍ مِنِّي وَلَا قُوَّةٍ" (Al-hamdu lillahil-lathee at’amani haatha wa razaqnihi min ghayri hawlin minnee wa laa quwwah), meaning "All praise is to Allah who has provided me with this food and sustenance without any power or might from me."
If one forgets to say "Bismillah" at the beginning, they can say "بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَوَّلَهُ وَآخِرَهُ" (Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirahu), meaning "In the name of Allah, its beginning and its end," when they remember.
Saying "Bismillah" before eating is a way to seek Allah's blessing and protection, as it acknowledges that the food is a provision from Him and helps ward off the influence of Shaytan.
Yes, the Salaf emphasized eating with the right hand, being mindful of moderation, and expressing gratitude to Allah for the sustenance provided, in addition to reciting the appropriate supplications.
