Eating: Is frequent eating blameworthy, even if it's necessary to maintain health and physical and mental energy—especially for seeking knowledge? Sleeping: Is sleeping for eight hours contrary to the Sunnah? And is sleeping less better for seeking knowledge, even though some people can't function well with less sleep?
Praise be to Allah, there is no harm in eating and sleeping as needed for maintaining health and mental well-being. What is blameworthy is excess and going beyond limits. Islamic teachings encourage balance in eating and sleeping, as stated in the hadith: "Eat, drink, clothe yourselves, and give in charity—without extravagance or pride."
A student of knowledge needs a well-rested and sound mind. If he is careful to sleep during the early night and take a midday nap, he may not need more. If he consumes nutritious food and regulates his meal times, he may avoid unnecessary and costly extra or ready-made meals. It is recommended to take sufficient rest and food, and to give away the excess in charity.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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