It is stated by experts that the eating manner of the Prophet (pbuh) corresponds fully with the principles of preventive medicine and modern health science. It can be said that the eating and drinking principles of the Messenger of Allah and his eating manners are in the form of the foundation of health and essence of medicine.
Ibne Maja narrated the Prophet’s way of sitting for food. Rasulullah SAW prevented from eating while the person is laying face downwards. Rasulullah SAW also said that “I do not eat while I am reclining”. The meaning of “reclining” was explained in several ways: sitting cross-legged; leaning on a thing and depending on it; and/or reposing on the side. The reclining position prevents food flow naturally, blocks the rate of food reaching to the stomach and presses the stomach.
In another source, it is cited that we should sit on our left sole while erecting the right knee, intending to strengthen ourselves thereby rather than merely relishing food. Such an intention is marked by satisfaction rather than satiation3. The Prophet (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,
“A human being has not filled any vessel which is worse than a belly. Enough for the son of Adam are some mouthfuls which can keep his back straight; but if there is no escape he should fill it a third with food, a third with drink, and leave a third empty.” (Narrated by At-Tirmidhi and Ibne Maja)
Taken together, the best sitting for food told by Muhammad SAW is leaning on the knees putting the inside of the left foot on the back of his right foot. This way of sitting expresses our humility to the Allah SWT and also a politeness in front of the Lord. The scientific reasons underlying this case is due to the normal position of human organ. Nutrition from foods is mostly efficient when all organs occupy their natural position. While someone leaning on the flank while eating, the swallowing organs become narrow and the stomach change its normal position because it is press when it touches the ground and the last part of the back presses the stomach that separates between the organs of food and those of breath.
Information regarding Muslim World and Pakistan.
