What is the explanation of the Hadith: "The blessing of food is ablution before it and ablution after it," in terms of its degree, the Companion who narrated it, what revolves around its words, and the aspect of jurisprudence, religion, or ethics it addresses?

The Hadith: "The blessing of food is ablution before it, and ablution after it" is weak and not established among scholars. Its narration revolves around Qays ibn Al-Rabi', who became confused due to his son. Imams such as Abu Hatim Al-Razi and Imam Ahmad have deemed him weak. The ablution intended in this Hadith refers to washing the hands, not the ritual ablution. No scholar has ever recommended ritual ablution before or after eating; rather, they have recommended washing hands for cleanliness, not as an act of worship. As for the issue of whether it is recommended to wash hands before and after eating, there is a difference of opinion, and the preponderant view is that it is not recommended except for the purpose of cleanliness. An exception to this is the person in a state of major ritual impurity (junub) who wishes to eat; for him, it is recommended to wash his hands. This Hadith is usually mentioned in the context of table manners.