None of you should eat with his left hand and drink with that (left hand), for the Satan eats with left hand and drinks with that (hand). Nafi' has made this addition in that:" Do not take up anything with that (left hand) and do not give anything with that" ; and in the narration transmitted on the authority of Abu Tahir there is a slight variation of wording.
The Book of Drinks - Sahih Muslim 2020 c
This narration from Sahih Muslim establishes the prohibition of eating and drinking with the left hand, as this is the manner of Satan. The addition from Nafi' extends this prohibition to taking and giving anything with the left hand.
Scholarly Commentary
The prohibition against using the left hand for eating and drinking stems from the fact that this is characteristic of Satan, who is our sworn enemy. A Muslim must distinguish himself from the enemies of Allah in all matters, even in mundane actions.
The left hand is designated for cleaning impurities, while the right hand is for noble actions such as eating, drinking, giving and receiving. This distinction maintains spiritual purity and demonstrates opposition to Satan's ways.
The additional prohibition from Nafi' regarding taking and giving with the left hand shows that this principle extends beyond consumption to all social interactions, ensuring that Muslims maintain proper etiquette in all dealings.
Practical Application
One must train oneself and one's children from a young age to use the right hand for eating, drinking, giving, receiving, and all honorable actions.
The left hand should be reserved exclusively for cleaning oneself after answering the call of nature and other impure matters.
If one is physically unable to use the right hand due to injury or disability, this prohibition is lifted, as Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity.