Milk holds a special place in Islamic tradition. Beyond its nutritional value, milk carries spiritual significance, with specific guidelines and blessings associated with its consumption.
We’ll dive into the etiquette of drinking milk according to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), highlighting the hadith references and the recommended supplications (duas) to recite.
Etiquette of Drinking Milk According to the Sunnah
The Prophet ﷺ taught us different simple practices when drinking milk. One such Sunnah is the act of rinsing one’s mouth after drinking milk.
A recommended practice after drinking milk is to rinse one’s mouth. According to Ibn’ Abbas (Bukhari 211 and Muslim 358):
“Allah’s Apostle drank milk and then rinsed his mouth and said, “It contains fat”.
Rinsing after drinking milk helps to remove any residue and maintain oral hygiene.
Many of us instinctively rinse our mouths after consuming milk to avoid the unpleasant, greasy feeling it can leave. However, by understanding this action as a sunnah, we can transform this mundane habit into an act of worship, earning blessings in the process.
So, what exactly is the Sunnah in this regard?
- Drink milk: The act of consuming milk itself is considered a sunnah, carrying its own set of blessings.
- Mindful drinking: The Prophet ﷺ advised drinking while seated, using the right hand, and taking three sips at a time. These are additional sunnahs associated with drinking.
- Dua after drinking: After enjoying the milk, recite the dua: “Allahumma baarik lana feehi wa zidna minhu” (O Allah! Bless us in it and give us an increase in it). This invocation seeks blessings from Allah and an increase in the nourishment received from the milk.
- Rinse your mouth: Finally, rinse your mouth with water to cleanse away any remaining milk residue. This simple act completes the Sunnah and contributes to oral hygiene.
By consciously following these steps, we can not only enjoy the physical benefits of milk but also reap the spiritual rewards of practising the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet ﷺ.
What does the Quran mention about milk?
The Quran mentions milk multiple times, often highlighting its purity and abundance as a provision from Allah (SWT). In Surah An-Nahl (The Bee), verse 66, Allah says:
“And indeed, for you in, grazing livestock is a lesson. We give you drink from what is in their bellies – between excretion and blood – pure milk, palatable to drinkers.”
This verse paints a vivid picture of the divine miracle that unfolds within the bodies of grazing livestock. It highlights the stark contrast between the seemingly impure origins of milk, situated between waste products and blood, and the final product – pure, wholesome milk that is both nourishing and delicious.
This transformation serves as a powerful reminder of Allah’s creative power and His ability to bring forth purity and goodness from unexpected sources.
It’s a testament to His wisdom and meticulous design in providing sustenance for His creation.
Moreover, the verse of the Holy Quran underscores the importance of observing and reflecting upon the natural world around us.
Within the simple act of a cow grazing in a field lies a profound lesson about Allah’s provision and the intricate workings of His creation.
It encourages us to ponder the wonders of nature and recognise the signs of His greatness in even the most ordinary of things.
Hadiths Regarding Milk
A number of hadiths further illustrate the importance of milk in Islamic tradition. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said:
This hadith highlights the numerous benefits of milk for both physical and mental well-being.
When Prophet Muhammad (SAW) Chose Milk?
There is a narration by Abu Huraira (RA) in Sahih Bukhari Book 69:
The hadith shows that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) chose milk when offered a choice between milk and wine. This demonstrates the esteemed position of milk among beverages.
It further underscores the significance of milk in Islamic dietary practices.
In another hadith narrated by Ibn ‘Abbas, the Prophet added:
Other Duas You Should Also Read
While there is no specific dua exclusively for drinking milk, it’s recommended to express gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His blessings.
Below is a list of relevant duas:
Dua for drinking water
English (Translation and Transliteration)
“All praise belongs to Allah, Who has served me with fresh water, and He did not make it salty and bitter on account of my sins.”
Alhamdu lillahil-ladhi saqani ma’an ‘adhban, walam yaj ‘alhu milhan ujajan bidhunubi.
Arabic
Dua for drinking Zamzam water
English (Translation and Transliteration)
” O Allah I ask You to bestow me with beneficial knowledge, extensive provision and cure from all illness.”
Allahumma innee as’aluka ilman nafe’an wa rizqan wase’an wa shifa’am min kulli da’a.
Arabic
Dua for wearing new clothes
When donning new clothes, express gratitude to Allah (SWT) with this dua:
English (Translation and Transliteration)
” O Allah, praise be to Thee! As Thou hast clothed me with it, I ask Thee for its good and the good of that for which it was made, and I seek refuge in Thee from its evil and the evil of that for which it was made.”
Source: Sunan Abu Dawood 4020
Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee kasaani hadhaa (wa razaqaneehi min ghayri hawlin minnee wa laa quwwah.
Arabic
This dua acknowledges Allah’s provision and emphasises reliance on His blessings.
Dua for entering home
Upon entering your home, seek blessings and protection with this dua:
English (Translation and Transliteration)
“In the name of Allah we enter, and in the name of Allah we leave, and upon our Lord we rely [and depend].”
Source: Abu Dawood 4:325
Bismillaahi walajnaa, wa bismillaahi kharajnaa, wa ‘alaa Rabbinaa tawakkalnaa.
Arabic
This dua invokes Allah’s name for protection and guidance within the dwelling.
Dua for entering Masjid
When entering a mosque, express humility and reverence with this dua:
English (Translation and Transliteration)
“O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.”
Source: Sahih Muslim 713a
Allahumma aftah lee abwaaba rahmatika.
Arabic
These heartfelt supplications serve as a beautiful expression of gratitude for the sustenance and nourishment that Allah graciously provides, acknowledging His divine blessings in every sip.
They also serve as a humble request, seeking His continued favour and protection in maintaining our physical and spiritual well-being.
Dua (supplication) holds a central and profound role. It is the direct line of communication between the believer and their Creator, a heartfelt conversation where hopes, fears, gratitude, and desires are laid bare before the Almighty.
Through dua, Muslims acknowledge Allah’s sovereignty, seeking His guidance, forgiveness, and blessings in all aspects of life.
Beyond its spiritual significance, dua serves as a source of comfort and solace in times of hardship and a beacon of hope in moments of despair.
It strengthens the bond between the servant and the Master, fostering an intimate relationship built on trust, reliance, and surrender.
Engaging in sincere and heartfelt supplication is a testament to one’s faith and a constant reminder of our dependence on Allah’s infinite mercy and compassion.
Summary – Dua for Drinking Milk
Milk, a cherished beverage in Islamic tradition, comes with specific etiquettes and blessings.
Drinking in moderation, avoiding blowing into the milk, and rinsing the mouth afterwards are practices encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
While there’s no exclusive dua for milk, expressing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His provision is recommended.
Additionally, other duas, like those for wearing new clothes, entering homes, and entering mosques, can enrich your daily life with blessings and mindfulness.
