What is the solution for remembering to mention the name of Allah over food, and is there a supplication that suffices for mentioning His name over it, and is forgetting that considered a sin?
"In the Name of Allah" (Tasmiyah) before eating is recommended by the majority of scholars, while some consider it obligatory due to the apparent command. The clearest narration regarding its form is that which was narrated by Al-Tirmidhi: "When one of you eats food, let him say 'Bismillah' (In the Name of Allah). If he forgets in the beginning, then let him say 'Bismillah awwalahu wa akhirahu' (In the Name of Allah, in its beginning and its end)." It is recommended to say the Tasmiyah aloud to alert others. If one forgets it at the beginning and remembers it during the meal, he should say: "Bismillah awwalahu wa akhirahu." The Tasmiyah is achieved by saying "Bismillah," and it is good if one follows it with "Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim" (The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful). Every eater should say the Tasmiyah, but if one person says it, the Tasmiyah is achieved. No other remembrance can substitute this specific one. If you forget it, there is no sin upon you, because Allah has overlooked error and forgetfulness. Among the means of remembering it is to remind those who share food with you of the importance of mentioning Allah's name and saying it aloud.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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