Question: Is it Sunnah not to speak while eating?
Answer: The Prophet (ﷺ) never prohibited the Sahabah from speaking while eating. In fact, multiple hadiths indicate that the Prophet (ﷺ) spoke during meals. For instance, Jabir ibn Abdullah (RA) narrated:
"The Prophet (ﷺ) asked his family for a condiment. They said, 'We have nothing with us but vinegar. He asked for it, he began to eat it, and then said: Vinegar is a good condiment, vinegar is a good condiment." (Sahih Muslim: 2052)
This hadith alone is sufficient evidence that one can talk while eating. Therefore, saying that it is Sunnah not to speak while eating is incorrect. However, it is always better to avoid unnecessary talk during meals, and if one does speak, it should be good and meaningful. Otherwise, silence is preferred.
Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah
Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia
English Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail
Understand the Shari'ah stance on Muslim men/women marrying disbelievers (Kafir) or polytheists (Mushrik), with Quranic evidence, Hadith, and scholarly views… Read More
Learn the Sunnah way of wiping the head during Wudu for men and women with long hair, plus rulings on… Read More
Discover the Shari'ah status of sprinkling water on private parts post-Wudu, its Sunnah basis from Hadith, and whether Wudu remains… Read More
Detailed Shariah ruling: Praying bareheaded is completely valid and permissible for men; covering the head is Mustahab in daily life… Read More
Explore Sharia rulings on head shaving for men and women during Hajj/Umrah (Sunnah for men, trimming for women) and whether… Read More
Explore the Islamic perspective on Jahez (dowry), its permissible and impermissible forms, and whether Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) gave dowry to… Read More