Question

Can you mention the authenticity of the Hadith which states we should have a third for food, a third for water and a third for air in the belly?

Answer

Sayyiduna Miqdam ibn Ma’di Karib (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports, I heard Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) say, “Man does not fill a container more evil than his belly. It is sufficient for man to eat that amount which straightens his back [i.e., a few morsels to gain some energy]. If this is not possible then a third for food, a third for drink and a third for air.”

(Sunan Tirmidhi, Hadith: 2380 and Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith: 3349)

Imam Tirmidhi and Imam Ibn Hibban (rahimahumallah) have graded the Hadith authentic.

(Sahih Ibn Hibban; Al Ihsan, Hadith: 674)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar