Foods (Kitab Al-At'imah) - Sunan Abi Dawud 3769

"I do not eat while reclining." This statement reflects the noble prophetic guidance regarding proper eating etiquette. The great scholar Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that reclining while eating indicates arrogance and excessive comfort, which the Prophet (peace be upon him) avoided as it contradicts the manners of humility and gratitude.

Imam al-Nawawi states in Sharh Sahih Muslim that the recommended posture for eating is sitting upright on the knees or cross-legged, as this demonstrates moderation and prevents overeating. The prohibition of reclining applies specifically to leaning on one's side in a manner of luxury and self-indulgence.

Scholars note that this teaching serves multiple purposes: it promotes proper digestion, encourages mindfulness during consumption, and cultivates humility before Allah. The hadith master al-Suyuti emphasizes that while this is a recommended practice (mustahabb) rather than an obligation, it represents the perfect manners that Muslims should strive to emulate in all aspects of life.