Is It Sunnah to Remain Silent While Eating? Clarifying the Ruling in Islam

Can You Speak While Eating? Exploring the Sunnah of Eating and Speaking

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