Eman Sakina

Allah says in the Quran: “Eat of the good things which We have provided for you.” (Al-Baqarah: 173 He Almighty also says, “Eat of what is lawful and wholesome on the earth. (Al-Baqarah: 168).

Friday Musings

Describing the Prophet, Allah says: “…He prohibits them from all that is foul…” (Al-A`raaf: 157). To abstain from eating without a valid reason is contrary to health protection.

 Hence, Islam does not approve of it. Allah says in the Qur’an: “Do not forbid yourselves the wholesome things God has made lawful for you.” (Al-Ma’dah: 87)

Healthy nutrition means having a balanced diet, to maintain the balance that Allah has established in all matters, and to which reference is made in the Qur’an: “And He enforced the balance. That you exceed not the bounds, but observe the balance strictly, and fall not short thereof”. (Ar-Rahman: 7-9).

Healthy nutrition means a diet balanced in quantity. Eating too much is contrary to Islamic teachings. In the Quran, we read: “Eat and drink, but avoid excess…” (Taha: 81)

The Prophet, peace be upon him, is reported to have said: “When filled with food, the belly becomes the worst container for the son of Adam. It is sufficient for a human being to have a few bites to keep himself fit (which means that it is sufficient to have only what one needs to maintain strength and well-being). If one must eat, then let him use one-third for food, one-third for drink, and one-third for breathing.”

The Concept of Halal and Tayyib

Islamic nutrition is governed by the principles of halal (permissible) and tayyib (pure and wholesome). Hala are the foods that must adhere to Islamic dietary laws, including permissible meats (slaughtered according to Islamic rites), fruits, vegetables, and grains. Alcohol, pork, and improperly slaughtered animals are prohibited.

Tayyib: Beyond permissibility, food should also be healthy, nutritious, and ethically sourced. The Quran instructs:

"O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship." (Quran 2:172).

Moderation in Eating

Islam advocates for moderation in consumption, discouraging both overeating and extravagance. This principle is outlined in the Quran:

"Eat and drink but do not waste by extravagance. Verily, Allah does not like those who waste." (Quran 7:31).

Prophet Muhammad also emphasized moderation, saying: "The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for him to eat a few mouthfuls to keep his spine straight. But if he must, then one-third for his food, one-third for his drink, and one-third for his breath."

This guidance aligns with modern dietary recommendations, which emphasize portion control for maintaining optimal health.

The Spiritual Connection with Food

In Islam, food consumption is a spiritual act. Muslims are encouraged to:

Begin meals by saying "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) to acknowledge God's provision.

End meals with "Alhamdulillah" (Praise be to Allah) as a gesture of gratitude.

This mindfulness fosters a deeper connection between faith and sustenance, reminding believers to avoid indulgence and excess.

Encouragement of Healthy Foods

Islam highlights the benefits of specific foods for their nutritional and medicinal value, many of which are endorsed by modern science. Examples include:

Dates: Rich in natural sugars, fiber, and essential minerals. Often consumed during Ramadan to break the fast, they provide quick energy.

Honey: Praised in the Quran as a cure for various ailments ("In it is healing for the people." - Quran 16:69).

Olive oil: Referenced in the Quran ("Lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree..." - Quran 24:35), known for its heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.

Milk: Described as a pure drink ("Milk, pure and pleasant to those who drink it." - Quran 16:66), it provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein.

Fasting: A Key Aspect of Nutrition

Fasting, particularly during Ramadan, is a cornerstone of Islamic practice. While its primary purpose is spiritual purification, fasting also has significant health benefits:

Detoxification: Eliminates toxins from the body.

Improved Metabolism: Helps regulate insulin sensitivity.

Discipline and Awareness: Encourages mindful eating and appreciation of food.

Cleanliness and Hygiene in Food

Islam places great emphasis on cleanliness in food preparation and consumption. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "Cleanliness is half of faith."

This extends to personal hygiene, ensuring clean utensils, and avoiding spoiled or contaminated food. Cleanliness safeguards health and aligns with the Islamic principle of preserving life.

Ethical and Sustainable Eating

Islamic teachings promote ethical considerations in nutrition:

Kind treatment of animals before and during slaughter.

Avoidance of wastefulness in food production and consumption.

Sharing meals with the needy, fostering community spirit, and reducing inequality.

ALSO READ: Tips for guiding children through the maze of social networking sites

Nutrition as a Form of Worship

In Islam, consuming halal and tayyib food is not only about physical health but also an act of worship. By following Islamic dietary laws, believers align their eating habits with their faith, ensuring their bodies are nourished and their souls remain connected to their Creator.