اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِيهِ وَأَطْعِمْنَا خَيْرًا مِنْهُ
O Allah, bless us in it and feed us something better than it.
Allahumma barik lana fihi wa at'imna khayran minhu
When to Read
This dua is recited by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ when he was invited to food, but it can be adapted for any meal to invoke blessings. It's particularly relevant when one feels a sense of need for Allah's provision and to combat any latent greed or excessive attachment to worldly food.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity before starting your meal. Focus on the meaning: asking Allah to bless the food already present and to provide even better sustenance. It's a moment to acknowledge that all blessings come from Him and to express contentment.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua before eating is a Sunnah (practice) of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It not only seeks blessings for the food but also cultivates gratitude and contentment. By asking for 'something better,' we are implicitly guarding against greed, reminding ourselves that Allah's blessings are boundless and that our true sustenance is ultimately with Him. This practice reinforces the idea that even the simplest act of eating is an opportunity for worship and connection with Allah.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from 'Abdullah bin Ja'far that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'The permissible provision which is sufficient is better than that which is abundant but will occupy you (with its provision and guarding it).' Then he mentioned the Hadith of Ibn Abi 'Adi, from Hammam, from Qatadah, from 'Anas, from the Prophet ﷺ: 'He did not taste food before it, and if he was offered milk, he would say: "O Allah, bless us in it and feed us with something better than it." (And if he ate dates, he would say the same).' (Sahih Muslim 2045)