بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ وَآخِرِه
Translation:
“In the name of Allah, in its beginning and at its end.”
Transliteration:
Bismillāhi fī awwalihi wa ākhirihi
Tafseer (Explanation) of the Dua When Forgetting to Say Bismillah
Islam teaches mindfulness and remembrance of Allah in every action, including eating. If a person forgets to say “Bismillah” at the beginning of the meal and later remembers, this dua serves as a correction and completion of that remembrance.
By saying “Bismillāhi fī awwalihi wa ākhirihi,” the believer acknowledges Allah both at the start and end of the meal. This restores the blessing (barakah) of the food and renews gratitude toward Allah, even after the meal has already begun.
This shows Allah’s mercy, as Islam does not demand perfection, but encourages awareness and correction whenever one remembers.
Importance of Remembering Allah While Eating
According to a hadith, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explained that when a person remembers Allah by reciting this dua after forgetting, Shayṭān is forced to vomit out the food he had been sharing. This restores the blessing of the meal and removes the participation of the devil.
Reciting “Bismillah” before eating is a key part of Islamic etiquette. It ensures that the meal is blessed, protected from Shayṭān, and eaten with gratitude rather than heedlessness.
A Small Sunnah with Big Rewards
Eating and drinking are daily routines that often happen without much thought. Islam teaches that even these ordinary actions can become acts of worship when done with the remembrance of Allah.
At first glance, saying “Bismillah” may seem like a small act, but its spiritual impact is immense. It turns a basic human need into an act of worship, earns reward, and strengthens the believer’s connection with Allah.
Even if one forgets initially, Islam encourages correcting the mistake instead of ignoring it. This builds mindfulness and sincerity in daily life.
Saying Bismillah: A Habit That Connects You to Allah
Before taking the first bite, a Muslim is taught to say “Bismillah.” This simple phrase reminds us that the food before us did not come by chance. Allah created the crops, sent the rain, granted strength to people, and placed the food on our table.
By saying Bismillah, a believer acknowledges Allah as the true Provider. This creates humility, removes arrogance, and nurtures gratitude in the heart.
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized this Sunnah so strongly that he taught it even to children, highlighting the importance of building this habit from an early age.
Hadith on Eating Etiquette
‘Umar bin Abū Salamah (RA) reported:
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said to me:
“O young boy, mention the Name of Allah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is near you.”
This hadith beautifully combines good manners, discipline, and remembrance of Allah, showing that Islam guides a believer in both spiritual and everyday matters.
