The Book on Food - Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Hadith Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1820

Hadith Text

That the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "The food of two is sufficient for three, and the food of three is sufficient for four."

He said: There are narrations on this topic from Jabir, and Ibn 'Umar.

[Abu 'Eisa said:] This Hadith is Hasan Sahih.

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith contains profound wisdom regarding sustenance and blessings. The Prophet (ﷺ) teaches us that when food is shared with good intention and gratitude, Allah multiplies its barakah (blessing). What appears insufficient for many becomes sufficient through divine grace.

The mathematical impossibility in worldly terms - that two people's food suffices for three, and three people's food suffices for four - demonstrates that divine blessings transcend material calculations. This principle applies not only to food but to all provisions when shared with sincerity.

Imam Tirmidhi's grading of this hadith as "Hasan Sahih" indicates its authentic chain of transmission and reliable content. The mention of supporting narrations from Companions like Jabir and Ibn 'Umar strengthens its authority.

This teaching encourages Muslims to be generous hosts, to share whatever provisions they have without fear of shortage, and to trust in Allah's promise of increased blessings through sharing and community.