Distribution of refreshment to guests

[Peterwf]

From the Hadith, Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 40: Distribution of Water

Volume 3, Book 40, Number 541: Narrated Sahl bin Sad:

A tumbler (full of milk or water) was brought to the Prophet who drank from it, while on his right side there was sitting a boy who was the youngest of those who were present and on his left side there were old men. The Prophet asked, "O boy, will you allow me to give it (i.e. the rest of the drink) to the old men?" The boy said, "O Allah's Apostle! I will not give preference to anyone over me to drink the rest of it from which you have drunk." So, the Prophet gave it to him.

Volume 3, Book 40, Number 554: Narrated Sahl bin Sad:

Once a tumbler (full of milk or water) was brought to Allah's Apostle who drank from it, while on his right side there was sitting a boy who was the youngest of those who were present, and on his left side there were old men. The Prophet asked, "O boy ! Do you allow me to give (the drink) to the elder people (first)?" The boy said, "I will not prefer anybody to have my share from you, O Allah's Apostle!" So, he gave it to the boy.


From these it seems to me that one should always distribute refreshment to the person on ones right hand side.

Is this correct?

 

['Abd al-Baari]

It is better and preferrable to go from the right, but you should start with the most honurable person, for example if there is an 'aalim present you should start with the 'aalim then go to the right of the aalim.

If you get the oppurtunity, try asking a Scholar.

Allah knows best.