746/1 - Abu Juhayfah Wahb ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: “I do not eat while reclining.” [Narrated by Al-Bukhāri]
Al-Khattābi said: “Reclining here refers to a person who sits supported by a cover underneath him and that he (the Prophet) meant that he does not sit on spreads and cushions like one who wants to eat a lot; rather, he should collect himself while sitting and only eat what satisfies his hunger.” This is Al-Khattābi’s opinion, and others said that a reclining person is one who leans to one side. And Allah knows best.
1) Forbiddance to eat while reclining.
2) Reclining while eating denotes arrogance and pride, which is why the Shariah forbids this manner. Moreover, reclining causes some health problems, since the passage of food is not in a straight position. This is a material reason related to the body.
747-2 - Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: “I saw the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) sitting in a squat and eating dates.” [Narrated by Muslim]
Sitting in a squat means sitting with the buttocks on the ground and the legs erect.
1) It is permissible to eat while sitting in a squat.
2) One of the things that help a person to eat less is that he avoids sitting in a stable and completely comfortable position.