Fatwa ID: 05379

Answered by: Mufti Eunus Ali

Question

Which are more shariah adherent and closer to sunnah-to eat at the table or to eat whilst sitting on the floor. This is for a person who is physically able to do both.

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

It is narrated by Anas (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (ﷺ) did not eat at a table till he died, and he did not eat a thin nicely baked wheat bread till he died.[1]

Although the Prophet (peace be upon him) had not personally eaten at a table, this would not justify anyone rebuking another for eating at a table as there is no prohibition in doing so.

Conclusion: if one sits on the floor to eat following in the footsteps of the messenger of Allah (peace be upon Him) then this is a virtuous deed and will be rewarded for it.

If one sits at a table at the time of eating then there is no sin upon him and will not be labeled as one who has opposed the sunnah just as the one who eats thin nicely baked wheat bread will not be sinful or labeled as one opposing the sunnah.

Only Allah knows best

Answered by Mufti Eunus Ali

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham

[1] Saheeh Bukhari: 6450