How do I explain that Israaf harms not only the body but also the soul? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often see overeating or wasting food as harmless, since their main focus is usually on taste, satisfaction, and enjoyment in the moment. As parents, the challenge is to explain to them that Israaf (extravagance or going beyond limits) is more than just a habit. It is something that harms both the body and the soul. Helping children understand this requires gentle teaching, relatable examples, and consistent role modelling at home. 

The Physical Harm: Balance and Comfort 

Begin by pointing out the physical side of Israaf in simple, child-friendly terms. You might say: ‘When we eat more than our body needs, our stomach feels heavy and uncomfortable. That is our body’s way of telling us we went beyond the limit.’ 

• After a heavy meal, you can gently ask them: ‘Do you notice how you feel sleepy when you eat too much bread or rice? That is the harm of Israaf on your body.’ This way, they see overeating as something that directly affects their own well-being. 

The Spiritual Harm: Gratitude and Self-Control 

Israaf is not only a physical problem; it weakens the soul by making a person forgetful of gratitude and self-control. You can explain: ‘When we always want more, even after our stomach is full, our heart forgets to thank Allah for what we already have.’ This shows that overindulgence is not simply about food but about the inner state of the heart. 

Stories and Empathy 

• Prophetic Companions: Share stories of how the companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ lived simple lives, often eating little but remaining strong, wise, and content because their souls were at peace. 

• Empathy and Sharing: Connect Israaf with empathy. You can remind them: ‘Every bite you leave on the plate could have been a meal for someone who is hungry. Allah does not like when we forget about others.’ This fosters compassion and naturally discourages overeating. 

Model Moderation 

Parents must also be mindful of their own behaviour. Take moderate portions and show gratitude aloud. You might say: ‘Alhamdulillah, this is enough for me.’ Children absorb more from what they see than what they hear, learning that moderation is strength, dignity, and faith. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Quran strongly warns against Israaf, showing that it displeases Allah Almighty and connects one to ungrateful behaviour. 

Displeasing Allah Almighty 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 31: 

‘O children of Adam, take (appropriate) measures to beautify yourself (before you appear) at any place of worship (for Prayer); and eat and drink and do not be extravagant (wasteful), as indeed, He (Allah Almighty) does not like extravagance.’ 

This verse directly shows that extravagance in food is disliked by Allah Almighty. Explain that going beyond limits is an act that Allah does not approve of, making moderation an act of obedience and worship. 

The Danger of Ingratitude 

Another powerful reminder is in Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 27: 

‘Indeed, those who are extravagant (i.e. wasteful of their wealth) these are the brothers of the Satan, as the Satan has always been ungrateful to his Sustainer.’ 

This verse highlights that Israaf is not a small mistake. It pulls a person closer to the behaviour of Shaytan, who is known for being ungrateful. Parents can explain: ‘When we waste food or eat too much, we act in a way that forgets Allah’s blessings, and that harms our soul.’ 

The Prophetic Prescription for Balance 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave very practical guidance. It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2380, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few mouthfuls to keep him going. If he must do it, then a third for his food, a third for his drink, and a third for his breath.’ 

Parents can remind children during meals: ‘The Prophet ﷺ taught us that leaving space in the stomach keeps both our body and soul healthy.’ This teaching shows that avoiding Israaf is a way of protecting both their physical health and their spiritual balance.