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

‘Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (s.a.s), his blessed descendents and noble companions.’

                                                                      Aameen.

SUNNATS PERTAINING TO INVITATIONS

S.1. Our beloved Nabi SAW has encouraged the accepting of invitations even if it be to partake of trotters (foot of sheep or goat). (Bukhari-S.K.-Vol. 1 :Pg. 170)

Note: Trotters was regarded as a cheap dish.

S.2. Whosoever does not accept an invitation has disobeyed Allah and His Nabi SAW. (Bukhari-S.K.-Vol.1: Pg. 171)

Note: Provided that there are no Shariah impediments like intermingling of sexes, music, ostentation, etc.

S.3. After accepting the invitation it is the prerogative of the guest to eat or not to eat. (Muslim-S.K.-Vol. 1: Pg. 172)

S.4. If the meal is not to one’s liking even then not to leave but rather to display patience.

(Ibn Hibban - S.K. - Vol. 1 : Pg. 172-173)

S.5. If one cannot eat when invited (e.g. due to fasting) then one should at least make du‘a for the host.

(Muslim - S.K. - Vol. 1 : Pg. 172)

S.6. If one receives two invitations simultaneously then one should accept the invitation of the one who is closer. If both homes are equidistant then the invitation of the one who is a closer neighbour, i.e. the one who has closer and greater ties. If both are of the same category as regards being neighbours then the invitation o f the one who tendered the invitation first should be accepted. (Musnad Ahmad - S.K. -Vol. 1 : Pg. 174)

S.7. Nabi SAW has prohibited accepting the invitation o f a sinner. (Majma ‘uz Zawaid- S.K. - Vol. 1: Pg. 174)

S.8. Nabi SAW has prohibited the eating of food of the proud ones. (Abu Dawud-S.K.-Vol. 1 : Pg. 174)

Note: By ‘proud ones’ is meant those who are feeding to show off and exhibit their greatness as being large hearted and most generous.

S.9. Nabi SAW said he who participates in any invitation without being invited goes as a thief and (after eating) leaves as a robber. (Abu Dawud-S.K.-Vol. 1 :Pg. 175)

S.10. Not to participate in any invite if one notices any unIslamic practice. (Bukhari-S.K.-V0I .1 :Pg. 175)

S.11. Allamah Nawawe (A.R.) has written that due to the following reasons it shall not remain preferable to attend any invitations:

a) If one doubts whether the earnings of the one inviting is halal or not;

b) If only the rich are invited;

c) If sinners and immodest people are also invited;

d) If the invitation is for name and fame;

e) If the invitation is to solicit support for some non permissible act;

f) If there are any haram acts at the place of eating e.g.

music, intermingling of sexes, eating whilst sitting on chairs at tables etc.

g) If alcohol is served;

h) Photography takes place;

i) If one is made to sit on silk sheets;

j) If one has to eat from silver or gold utensils; etc.

(S.K.-Vol. 1 : Pg. 175-176)

S.12. Worshiping Allah, feeding others and propagating the Deen are all means of entry into Jannah.

{Tirmidhi — S.K. - Vol. 1: Pg. 176)

S.13. Allah boasts in front of theangels about those who feed Others. (At-Targhib-S.K.-Vol. 1 :Pg. 177)

S.14. When invited and after partaking o f the meal, to perform Salah and make du‘a for blessings for the host.

(Tahaawe- S.K.-Vol. 1 : Pg. 177)

S.15. After eating at a hosts place to supplicate for him in the following words

Aftara ‘Indakumus-saa imuna WaAkala Ta‘aamakumul

Abraaru Wasallat ‘Alaykumul Mala ’ikatu.

“May the fasting person open fast by you, may the pious eat your food and may angels pray for forgiveness for you.” (Abu Dawud - S.K. - Vol. 1: Pg. 236)

A/N ;)

So yeah don’t forget to ask Du’a for your host after filling the tummy with those delicious delicacies ;)))

 With Duas and Salaam,

abdurRahman (Gudi ;))