Definition
In the Name of Allah.
Expanded, with connotation: I begin my actions, seeking the help of Allah and seeking blessing by beginning in His name.
Pronunciation
BISS-mill-lah
Notes
This statement is said before starting any action or activity, including some which are specifically legislated, such as eating, performing wudu, etc. (see Resources section below).
Resources
Ahadith
Reciting “Bismillah” before eating:
Narrated ‘Umar ibn Abi Salamah: I was a young boy in the care of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), and my hand used to wander all over the platter (of food). The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to me, “O young boy, say Bismillah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is directly in front of you.”
What if you forget to recite “Bismillah” before eating?
It was narrated that ‘Aishah said: “The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was eating food with six of his Companions when a Bedouin came and ate it all in two bites. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: ‘If he had said Bismillah, it would have sufficed you (all). When any one of you eats food, let him say Bismillah, and if he forgets to say Bismillah at the beginning, let him say Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirih (In the Name of Allah at the beginning and at the end).’”
When closing and locking your door after entering your home (or any door, including interior doors or cabinets, etc.), covering your vessels, etc. to safeguard against the Shaiyateen:
Jabir reported the Prophet (ﷺ) as saying, “Shut your door and make mention of Allah’s name, for the devil does not open a door which has been shut; extinguish your lamp and make mention of Allah’s name, cover up your vessel even by a piece of wood that you just put on it and make mention of Allah’s name, and tie up your water-skin mentioning Allah’s name.”
Additional Learning
- The Reason for Saying Bismillah Before Doing Things
- Should One Say “Bismillah” or “Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Raheem” Before Eating?
Discord Sticker
This sticker has been in use on the Discord server since August 2, 2023. Most often dropped in the chat to signify the start of a lecture stream.
