Once Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) visited us in this house of ours and asked for something to drink. We milked one of our sheep and mixed it with water from this well of ours and gave it to him. Abu Bakr was sitting on his left side and `Umar in front of him and a bedouin on his right side. When Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) finished, `Umar said to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) "Here is Abu Bakr." But Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) gave the remaining milk to the bedouin and said twice, "The (persons on the) right side! So, start from the right side." Anas added, "It is a Sunna (the Prophet's traditions)" and repeated it thrice.
Hadith of the Right Side Preference
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (2571) demonstrates the Prophetic emphasis on honoring the rights of those on one's right side, establishing it as a lasting Sunnah for the Muslim community.
Contextual Analysis
The Prophet's visit to Anas ibn Malik's household illustrates his humble nature, accepting simple hospitality. The presence of Abu Bakr and Umar - senior companions - alongside an unknown bedouin shows the Prophet's impartial application of justice.
The well-watered milk represents the simplicity of early Muslim life, while the seating arrangement provides the context for the legal ruling that follows.
Legal Rulings Derived
The primary ruling establishes that when distributing food, drink, or other items among a group, one should begin with those on the right side. This applies even if those on the left hold higher status.
The Prophet's repetition of "The right side! So, start from the right side" emphasizes the importance of this etiquette, making it a strongly recommended practice (mustahabb).
Anas ibn Malik's triple affirmation that "It is a Sunnah" indicates this practice carries the weight of established Prophetic tradition, not merely personal preference.
Spiritual Dimensions
This teaching cultivates fairness and prevents favoritism, ensuring all present feel equally valued regardless of social status.
The right side holds symbolic importance in Islamic tradition, being the side of honor and preference in various acts of worship and daily life.
By giving precedence to the bedouin over his closest companions, the Prophet demonstrated that Islamic etiquette transcends personal relationships and tribal affiliations.
Practical Applications
Scholars apply this ruling to various scenarios: serving food at gatherings, distributing charity, passing items in group settings, and even in the order of performing ablution and other rituals.
The principle extends beyond physical direction to metaphorical "rights" - prioritizing the needs of those who have greater claim or need.
This Sunnah remains relevant in modern contexts, reminding Muslims to maintain equitable treatment in all social interactions.