In the world of Instagram, it’s easy to get lost in the drool-worthy pictures of food and to take photos yourself to show off your master creations. But there are things that should be done before the photo-taking and the eating begins. You can easily forget in this fast-paced world, but remember to slow down, remember your values and adhere to the correct etiquette of eating, to not offend your hosts or guests to take the perfect picture!

Before eating

Everyone does meals different but these core actions should always be included

Washing your hands:

is important for a hygienic meal, whether you are eating or cooking it’s a necessary element that can’t be missed. 

Mention the name of Allaah before eating:

It is common practice to mention and thank Allaah for your food, as food is one of his many blessings and should always it should always be thanked for. 

“When anyone of you eats, let him mention the name of Allaah. If he forgets to mention the name of Allaah at the beginning, then let him say ‘Bismillaahi awwalahu wa aakhirahu (In the name of Allaah at the beginning and at the end). – Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)” 

Manners while eating

There are many manners to remember while eating but here are the most important to stick by, follow these and you’ll never be considered a rude guest again!

Eating with your right hand:

this may seem trivial at first but it holds deep meaning in the Muslim community, as using your left hand is associated with the actions of the Shaytaan. As long as you do not have a legitimate excuse, you should be using your right hand to eat. 

Eat from what is directly in front of you:

In any setting reaching across the table to grab the salt, possibly contaminating food along the way, is generally considered impolite and is no different for Muslims, Ibn ‘Abbaas narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The blessing descends in the middle of the food, so eat from the edges and do not eat from the middle.” 

Do not criticise food:

again this is considered impolite in any setting for a meal, but it is also a sign of extreme ingratitude to Allah, the provider, as well as the person who made the meal. Don’t be rude be grateful!

Do not eat too much:

we have been taught by the prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to enjoy everything in moderation, and this applies to enjoy meals also. You may want to scoff down that Insta worthy meal, but remember to only satisfy your hunger rather than yourself as the prophet taught. 

If all of this is too hard to remember, remembering this quote will make it easy to be a great guest and your next dinner party

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to ‘Umar ibn Abi Salamah, “O young boy, say Bismillaah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is directly in front of you.”

At the end of every meal, begin as you start by washing your hands and thanking Allah for his blessing, and then you can share around the perfect pic of that dish with your followers!