Prof. Dr. H. Muhammad Yusuf, S.Ag., M.Pd.I.
I. Prologue
This article examines the multifaceted power of mengunyah (chewing) within the Islamic framework, emphasizing the consumption of tayyib (good and wholesome) food, the practice of gratitude, and the imperative to avoid following the footsteps of Satan as exemplified in QS. Al-Baqarah 2:168. Through a synthesis of Quranic exegesis, Islamic ethics, and nutritional insights, this paper reveals how mindful chewing enhances physical health and spiritual well-being.
II. Dialogue
Chewing and consuming that which is lawful and wholesome, while expressing gratitude, are actions that should be performed simultaneously. A common misconception taught is to offer a prayer of thanks only after finishing the meal, rather than during it. However, eating is a physical activity, whereas expressing gratitude is a spiritual act. Being fully present—both physically and spiritually—while partaking in food is often neglected in teaching. Please consider reflecting on the guidance presented in the Qur’an.
QS. Al-Baqarah 2:168 states:
يٰٓاَيُّهَا النَّاسُ كُلُوْا مِمَّا فِى الْاَرْضِ حَلٰلًا طَيِّبًاۖ وَّلَا تَتَّبِعُوْا خُطُوٰتِ الشَّيْطٰنِۗ اِنَّهٗ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ مُّبِيْنٌ ١٦٨
Translation:
"O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy."
This verse establishes critical Islamic dietary principles: consuming halal (lawful) and tayyib (good/wholesome) food, coupled with vigilance against satanic temptations. Mengunyah, or chewing, offers an embodied practice that actualizes these principles on physical and spiritual levels.
Tayyib: Beyond Halal in Food Consumption
Islamic jurisprudence differentiates halal (permissible) from tayyib, where tayyib signifies purity, wholesomeness, and beneficial qualities . Consumption of tayyib food supports physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual purity. Thorough chewing breaks down food mechanically, facilitating digestion and nutrient bioavailability .
Chewing also encourages mindfulness, allowing the eater to appreciate tayyib food as a divine blessing, reinforcing the connection between physical sustenance and spiritual gratitude.
Gratitude (Syukur) as a Pillar of Mindful Eating
Gratitude is foundational in Islam, reflecting recognition of Allah's generosity. Mindful mengunyah nurtures a grateful disposition by slowing the eating process, permitting contemplation of Allah’s provisions . This attitude reduces waste and overeating, aligning with the Quranic principle of moderation (wasatiyyah) .
Resisting Satan’s Steps Through Conscious Eating
“Following the footsteps of Satan” in the context of eating includes succumbing to gluttony, consuming forbidden food, and neglecting mindful eating . Satan’s objective is to lead humans away from spiritual and physical well-being.
The process of chewing mindfully cultivates restraint and prevents heedlessness, serving as a practical barrier to satanic influence. By embodying intention during eating, believers reinforce self-control and ethical consumption.
The Holistic Impact of Mengunyah
Physical health: Improving enzymatic digestion, managing appetite, and enhancing nutrient absorption .
Spirituality: Encouraging gratitude, increasing awareness of divine blessings, and strengthening faith .
Ethical living: Aligning with halal and tayyib consumption, respecting creation, and rejecting excess .
III. Epilogue
The power of mengunyah transcends mere physiology, encompassing spiritual mindfulness and ethical responsibility. QS. Al-Baqarah 2:168 guides Muslims to consume halal and tayyib food, express ongoing gratitude, and shun satanic temptation. Engaging fully in mindful chewing offers a profound pathway to holistic health and spiritual excellence.
References
The Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah 2:168, Saheeh International Translation.
Kamali, M. H. (2008). Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence. Islamic Texts Society.
Gibson, E. L. (2006). Chewing and digestion: A comprehensive review. Appetite, 47(1), 1-7.
Al-Ghazali, A. H. M. (2010). Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of Religious Sciences).
Esposito, J. L. (2003). Islam: The Straight Path. Oxford University Press.
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