اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِيهِ وَأَطْعِمْنَا خَيْرًا مِنْهُ
O Allah, bless what You have provided for us and feed us better than it.
Allahumma barik lana feehi wa at'imna khayran minhu
When to Read
This dua is recited before starting to eat. It's a beautiful way to express gratitude for the meal and ask Allah to bless it, not just in quantity but in quality, implying a provision that is wholesome and truly beneficial. It sets a tone of humility and reliance on Allah from the very beginning of the meal.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention as you prepare to eat. It's often said after the host has served the food or as everyone is about to begin. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to begin all our actions with Allah's name and supplication, and eating is no different. The emphasis is on acknowledging the blessing of the food and seeking Allah’s continued favor.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua before eating is a Sunnah practice that brings immense barakah (blessings) to our food. It reminds us that true sustenance comes from Allah. When we ask Allah to bless what we have and provide better, we are not just asking for more food, but for food that is healthy, nourishing, and pleasing to Him. This humble supplication fosters contentment and gratitude, which are key virtues in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ also taught us to eat with our right hand and to avoid waste, further embodying the modesty and humility this dua encourages.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abdullah ibn Busr (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, when food was brought to him, would say: 'O Allah, bless what You have provided for us and feed us better than it.' (Sunan Abi Dawud 3767, Sunan Ibn Majah 3289 - both graded Hasan). While this specific wording is Hasan, the general principle of making dua before eating is found in many authentic hadith, such as the practice of saying Bismillah.