Meat: The Best Food in This World and the Hereafter

Food in Islam is not merely sustenance; it is a divine blessing and often a sign of reward in the Hereafter. Among all foods mentioned in the Qur’an and Sunnah, meat stands out as the most honored. It is considered a nutritional powerhouse and a delicacy cherished both in this world (dunya) and the next (ākhirah).

Meat in the Qur’an and Jannah

In Surah al-Tur (52:22), Allah ﷻ describes the rewards for the people of Paradise:

“And We will provide them with fruit and meat from whatever they desire.”

This verse reflects the luxury and pleasure of Jannah, where believers will be rewarded with meat and fruit in abundance, tailored to their desires. This highlights meat as one of the favored foods in Paradise.

The Best Food According to the Prophet ﷺ

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have said:

“The best food in this world and the Hereafter is meat.”

This statement emphasizes that meat is both a spiritual and physical nourishment. It strengthens the body, increases red blood cell production, and leaves a pleasing taste.

The Prophet ﷺ particularly enjoyed the meat of the leg of an animal. In the event of Khaybar, a Jewish woman attempted to poison him by targeting this very portion of a roasted sheep, knowing it was his favorite.

The Nutritional Value of Meat

Meat, especially red meat, is a rich source of:

• Iron – essential for red blood cell formation
• Zinc – supports the immune system
• Vitamin B12 – vital for nerve function and en