The Book of Drinks - Sahih Muslim

Hadith Reference: Sahih Muslim 2019

Hadith Text

"Do not eat with your left hand, for the Satan eats with his left hand."

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes a fundamental etiquette of Islamic dining. The prohibition against using the left hand for eating is not merely a matter of preference but carries profound spiritual significance. The right hand is designated for pure and honorable acts, while the left is reserved for cleansing and less dignified matters.

The association with Satan serves as a powerful deterrent, reminding believers that emulating the practices of the accursed one distances one from divine grace. This teaching aligns with numerous prophetic traditions emphasizing the superiority of the right hand in matters of eating, drinking, giving, and receiving.

Scholars have unanimously agreed upon the reprehensibility of eating with the left hand without legitimate excuse. The only permissible exceptions are for those physically incapable of using their right hand due to injury or disability. This ruling extends beyond eating to include drinking and other acts of consumption.

Spiritual Wisdom

This teaching cultivates mindfulness in daily acts, transforming mundane activities into acts of worship. By consciously choosing the right hand, the Muslim constantly reaffirms their opposition to Satan's ways and their commitment to divine guidance in all affairs, no matter how small.