Let alone acts of worship which are a means of earning from the limitless treasures of Allah Ta‘ala, Islam has taught man a way to transform even his worldly activities into acts of ibaadah (worship) through which he will be able to please Allah Ta‘ala and become a source of mercy to mankind.
While in this world, every person needs to eat, drink, sleep, conduct business, socialize and fulfil other needs. However, through carrying out these mundane activities in accordance to the sunnah manner, one will be able to gain abundant reward and secure the proximity of Allah Ta‘ala and His beloved Rasul (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam).
Sunnats and Aadaab before Eating
1. Always consume halaal and wholesome food. Refrain from consuming doubtful or haraam food. [1]
2. Eat with the intention of gaining strength to fulfil the commands of Allah Ta‘ala and engage in His worship. [2]
3. One should sit on the floor and eat. [3]
[1] عن أبي هريرة قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: أيها الناس إن الله طيب لا يقبل إلا طيبا وإن الله أمر المؤمنين بما أمر به المرسلين فقال: يا أيها الرسل كلوا من الطيبات واعملوا صالحا إني بما تعملون عليم وقال: يا أيها الذين آمنوا كلوا من طيبات ما رزقناكمثم ذكر الرجل يطيل السفر أشعث أغبر يمد يديه إلى السماء يا رب يا رب ومطعمه حرام ومشربه حرام وملبسه حرام وغذي بالحرام فأنى يستجاب لذلك (صحيح مسلم، الرقم: 1015)
[2] سورة المؤمنون: 51، سنن الترمذي، الرقم: 3491، وقال: هذا حديث حسن غريب
[3] فتاوى رحيميه 10/141