Question:

Is eating with a fork not recommended?
I understand that eating with your fingers is Sunnah but there are some food like spaghetti that it is difficult to eat with your fingers. Somebody (not a Mufti) told us that you should not eat with something that can be used a weapon like a knife. Do forks fall in the same category?

Answer:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

As you have rightfully stated, it is Sunnah to eat with one’s fingers.

Although eating with a fork or spoon is permissible, one would be deprived of the reward of following the Sunnah.

However, if one is eating such a food that can only be eaten with a fork or spoon, then one is excused.[1]

It is permissible to use a knife while eating to cut the food. One should not put the knife directly in one’s mouth as this may be harmful. A fork is not in the same category as a knife, as eating with a fork is not harmful.

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

(Mufti) Abdul Azeem bin Abdur Rahman

[1] Aap Kay Masaail Aur Un Kaa Hall Mudallall, Vol. 8, page 386-387

Darul Uloom Zakariyya, Vol. 6, page 562, Zamzam