بِسْمِ اللَّهِ. اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِيهِ وَأَطْعِمْنَا خَيْرًا مِنْهُ.
In the name of Allah. O Allah, bless us in it and feed us better than it.
Bismillah. Allahumma barik lana fihi wa at'imna khayran minhu.
When to Read
This dua is recited before starting to eat, whether it's a full meal or just a snack. It's a beautiful way to acknowledge Allah's provision and ask for its blessing and for even better sustenance in the future.
How to Read
Begin by saying 'Bismillah' (In the name of Allah) before taking the first bite. Then, recite the full dua: 'Allahumma barik lana fihi wa at'imna khayran minhu.' It's recommended to recite this with sincerity and mindfulness of the blessings you are about to receive. If you forget to say it at the beginning, you can say it when you remember, even during the meal.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua before eating is a beautiful act of gratitude and reliance on Allah. It invokes Allah's blessing ('barakah') upon the food, making it more beneficial for our bodies and souls. It also fosters contentment and appreciation for the sustenance provided, reminding us to be thankful for what we have and to hope for even greater blessings from our Creator.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us a comprehensive way to approach our meals. When he ate, he would say 'Bismillah,' and if he forgot at the beginning, he would say it after remembering. Furthermore, he advised, 'When one of you eats, let him say: Bismillah. If he forgets to say Bismillah at the beginning, let him say: Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirih (In the name of Allah at the beginning of it and at the end of it).' In another narration, when food was brought to the Prophet (peace be upon him), he would say: 'Allahumma barik lana fihi wa at'imna khayran minhu' (O Allah, bless us in it and feed us better than it). References: Sunan Abi Dawud 3767 (Graded Hasan by Al-Albani) Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1804 (Graded Sahih by Al-Albani)