Muhammad ibn Adam ibn Sulayman al-Misiqi narrated to us: Ibn Abi Za'idah narrated to us, saying: Abu Ayyub, meaning al-Ifriqi, narrated to me, from Asim, from al-Musayyab ibn Rafi' and Ma'bad, from Harithah ibn Wahb al-Khuza'i, who said: Hafsah, the wife of the Prophet (ﷺ), narrated to me that the Prophet (ﷺ) used his right hand for his food, drink, and clothing, and his left hand for other than that.
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) used his right hand for taking his food and drink and used his left hand for other purposes.
Reference
Sunan Abi Dawud 32 - Purification (Kitab Al-Taharah)
Commentary
This noble hadith establishes the Islamic etiquette of distinguishing between the right and left hands in daily activities. The right hand is designated for honorable acts such as eating, drinking, giving and receiving, while the left hand is reserved for cleansing and less honorable tasks.
Scholars explain that this distinction reflects the wisdom of Islamic law in organizing human life according to principles of purity and respect. The right hand symbolizes blessing and honor, as evidenced by numerous prophetic traditions. Using it for consumption honors the blessings of food and drink.
The phrase "other purposes" refers primarily to cleaning oneself after answering the call of nature, handling impure substances, and similar acts that require separation from acts of worship and consumption. This practice maintains spiritual and physical purity.
This teaching instills discipline in the Muslim's daily life, reminding them that even mundane actions can become acts of worship when performed in accordance with prophetic guidance. It cultivates consciousness of Allah in all aspects of life.
Legal Ruling
The majority of scholars consider using the right hand for eating and drinking to be a recommended sunnah (mustahabb), not obligatory. However, consistently following this practice earns spiritual reward and maintains the prophetic tradition.