ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ ٱلَّذِى جَعَلَ ٱلتِّمْرَ أَوَّلَ طَعَامٍ أَكَلْتُهُ فِى هَذِهِ ٱلدُّنْيَا
All praise is due to Allah, Who made dates the first food I ate in this world.
Al-hamdulillah alladhee ja'ala at-tamra awwala ta'aamin akaltuhu fee hathihi ad-dunya
When to Read
This specific dua is recited when you eat dates for the first time after a new meal or when you are breaking a fast. While there isn't a specific, universally agreed-upon dua for *every* fruit, the general principle of thanking Allah before eating applies. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to thank Allah for every blessing, including food. So, when you're about to enjoy any fruit or produce, remember this practice of gratitude.
How to Read
It's best to recite this dua before taking the first bite. Wash your hands, hold the fruit, and with a present heart, make this supplication. The intention is to acknowledge Allah's bounty and express your gratitude for His provision. If you forget to say it before, you can say it afterwards, as the Prophet ﷺ also taught: 'Whoever eats something should say: *Al-hamdulillah alladhee at'amani hadha wa razaqanihi min ghayri hawlin minni wa la quwwah* (All praise is due to Allah Who fed me this and provided it for me without any might from me nor power).'
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua before eating, particularly dates as mentioned, brings immense blessings. It cultivates a habit of gratitude, reminding us that all sustenance comes from Allah. This practice aligns our actions with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who was always mindful of thanking Allah. Expressing gratitude can lead to increased blessings, as Allah says, 'And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]’' (Surah Ibrahim 14:7).
Source & Authentication
Abu Dawud narrated that Abu Umamah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: 'The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to have dates. When he finished, he would say: 'Al-hamdulillah alladhee ja'ala at-tamra awwala ta'aamin akaltuhu fee hathihi ad-dunya.' (All praise is due to Allah, Who made dates the first food I ate in this world.)