اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِيمَا رَزَقْتَنَا، وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا، وَارْحَمْنَا
O Allah, bless us in what You have provided us, forgive us, and have mercy upon us.
Allahumma barik lana fima razaqtana, waghfir lana, warhamna.
When to Read
This dua is recited before starting any meal, whether it's a light snack or a full course. It's particularly relevant when eating with family, and the intention can be expanded to include seeking strength from the food to fulfill one's duties towards parents.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity before taking the first bite. It's recommended to say it aloud if eating with others, and silently if eating alone. The act of making dua before eating is a Sunnah, a practice of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and it's a beautiful way to acknowledge Allah's provision. When intending to gain strength to support parents, one can keep this intention in their heart while reciting the dua.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua before eating not only brings blessings to the food itself, making it more nourishing and satisfying, but also seeks forgiveness and mercy from Allah. By invoking Allah's blessing on the provision, we are asking Him to grant us the strength and ability to use that sustenance for good, including the noble act of supporting and caring for our parents. This transforms a simple meal into an opportunity for worship and fulfilling our obligations.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught his companions to recite this dua before eating. While this specific hadith focuses on the general blessing of food, the underlying principle of seeking Allah's help and strength through His provisions can be extended to all our duties. The act of seeking blessing in food is meant to make it a source of benefit for our bodies and our deeds, including our responsibilities towards our parents.