Starting from the Right Side: A Mustahab Practice in Islam

Any beautiful and good work is best done with the right hand or started from the right side. This practice is considered mustahab, or recommended, in Islam. One must eat, drink, take or give something from someone, musafaha, write, and perform other actions with the right hand.

Starting from the right side is also recommended when wearing clothes, entering the mosque, trimming the moustache, shaving the head, offering salam in prayer, and other actions. This practice is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SA) and is considered a way to show respect and gratitude to Allah.

Ayesha (RA) said, “Rasul (SA) liked to start all his work from the right side as much as possible. He used to start from the right side to achieve purity, shave his head, wear shoes, and perform other actions.” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

Writing, especially the verses of the Qur’an, should be done with the right hand. However, if one is left-handed or has a problem with the right hand, then they can write with the left hand.

Eating with the Right Hand

Eating with the left hand is considered makruh, or disliked, in Islam. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Each of you should eat with the right hand, drink with the right hand, receive with the right hand, and give alms with the right hand.” This is because Satan eats with the left hand, drinks with the left hand, gives with the left hand, and receives with the left hand. (Ibn Majah: 3266)

However, if one cannot use the right hand due to illness or a special reason, then they can use the left hand while eating.