(1)بِسْمِ اللَّهِ

Bismillah

“In the name of Allah.

(2) “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى بَرَكَةِ اللَّهِ

 Bismillahi wa ‘ala barakatillah.

“In the name of Allah and with the blessings of Allah.”

Explanation of Dua Before Eating

The dua “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ” (Bismillah) and “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى بَرَكَةِ اللَّهِ” (Bismillahi wa ‘ala barakatillah) translate to “In the name of Allah” and “In the name of Allah and with the blessings of Allah,” respectively. These phrases are recited before eating as a way of invoking Allah’s blessings and acknowledging His provision. The practice is rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), emphasizing the importance of starting meals with the remembrance of Allah to ensure blessings and avoid negative influences.

Origin from Hadith

1. Dua Before Eating:
   1. The dua “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ” (Bismillah) is derived from a hadith where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) instructed: “When one of you eats, let him mention the name of Allah (saying Bismillah). If he forgets to mention it at the beginning, let him say: ‘Bismillahi fi awwalihi wa akhirihi’ (In the name of Allah at the beginning and at the end).” (Sahih Muslim)
2. Expanded Form:
   1. The expanded form “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى بَرَكَةِ اللَّهِ” (Bismillahi wa ‘ala barakatillah) reflects the Prophet’s (PBUH) practice of seeking Allah’s blessings in all actions, including eating. This form is a supplication for divine blessings to accompany the meal.

Significance

1. Invocation of Blessings:
   1. Reciting these duas before eating aligns the meal with spiritual mindfulness, seeking Allah’s blessings and ensuring that the act is performed with gratitude and humility.
2. Reminder of Allah’s Provision:
   1. These phrases remind the believer of Allah’s continuous provision and the importance of recognizing His role in everyday sustenance.

Incorporating these duas into daily life helps foster a habit of gratitude and mindfulness, aligning routine actions with spiritual practices.