بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِيمَا رَزَقْتَنَا وَاقْفِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
In the name of Allah. O Allah, bless us in what You have provided us and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.
Bismillahi, Allahumma barik lana fima razaqtana waqfina 'adhaban-nar.
When to Read
This dua is specifically for an elderly person, or for anyone reciting it on behalf of an elderly person, before starting a meal. It’s a beautiful supplication that acknowledges Allah's provision and seeks His protection, which is especially poignant for those whose physical strength may be diminishing.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a mindful heart before beginning to eat. The phrase 'Bismillahi' (In the name of Allah) should be said with each mouthful or at the start of the meal as per the Sunnah. The rest of the dua can be recited once before starting to eat. It's an opportunity to reflect on Allah's countless blessings, particularly the blessing of sustenance.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua before eating invites Allah's blessings upon the food and the eater. It reminds us that all provision comes from Allah (SWT) and fosters gratitude. Furthermore, seeking protection from the Fire of Hell is a constant aspiration for a believer, and incorporating it into our daily actions, like eating, keeps it at the forefront of our minds. This specific dua, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, is a comprehensive request for both worldly and otherworldly well-being.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught his companions a dua to recite before eating: 'Bismillahi, Allahumma barik lana fima razaqtana waqfina 'adhaban-nar.' (In the name of Allah. O Allah, bless us in what You have provided us and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.) This hadith, found in Sunan Ibn Majah, highlights the importance of invoking Allah's name and His blessings even before partaking in a meal, which is a basic necessity of life. The inclusion of seeking protection from the Fire is a profound reminder of our ultimate goal as Muslims.