Introduction
Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, observed by millions of Muslims through fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. One of the main rules of fasting (Sawm) is avoiding food, drinks (including water), Smoking, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib).
A common question is: Can you drink water during Ramadan? The short answer is no—but let’s explain why.
Rules of Fasting in Ramadan
During fasting hours (from Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, until Iftar, the sunset meal), Muslims must avoid:
✔️ Eating any food
✔️ Drinking anything, including water
✔️ Smoking
✔️ Engaging in marital relations
Since drinking water breaks the fast, it is prohibited during fasting hours.
Why Can’t You Drink Water During Ramadan?
There are three main reasons why fasting includes avoiding water:
1️⃣ Religious Obligation – Fasting in Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, as commanded in the Quran.
2️⃣ Self-Discipline & Control – Avoiding food and drink teaches patience, self-restraint, and empathy for the less fortunate.
3️⃣ Spiritual Purification – Fasting helps Muslims focus on faith, improve character, and build a stronger connection with Allah.
Quranic Reference
Allah says in the Quran:
📖 “Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until sunset.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:187)
This means once dawn arrives, no food or drink (including water) is allowed until sunset.
Who is Excused from Fasting?
Islam allows some people to skip fasting if they cannot do it safely:
🔹 Elderly individuals who are too weak to fast
🔹 People with medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease, dehydration risks)
🔹 Pregnant or breastfeeding women (if fasting may harm them or the baby)
🔹 Menstruating women (they must make up the fasts later)
🔹 Travelers on long journeys
🔹 Children who have not reached puberty
These people can either make up missed fasts later or give charity (vidya) by feeding a poor person if they cannot fast.
How to Stay Hydrated During Ramadan?
Since water is not allowed during fasting hours, drinking enough water at night is important. Here are some tips:
✅ Drink at least eight glasses of water between Iftar and Suhoor.
✅ Eat hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and yoghurt.
✅ Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, soda) as they cause dehydration.
✅ Limit salty and spicy foods (they make you thirsty).
✅ Drink water slowly instead of gulping too much at once.
What If You Accidentally Drink Water While Fasting?
If someone forgets they are fasting and drinks water by mistake, their fast is still valid. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
📖 “If somebody eats or drinks forgetfully, then he should complete his fast, for what he has eaten or drunk has been given to him by Allah.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6669)
However, if someone deliberately drinks water, they must repent and make up the fast later.
Conclusion
No, you cannot drink water while fasting in Ramadan. However, you can stay hydrated by drinking enough water between Iftar and Suhoor.
Islam allows exemptions for people who cannot fast for health reasons. If you drink water by accident, your fast is still valid.
Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, discipline, and gratitude. Enduring thirst and hunger teaches patience and empathy. Following proper hydration tips and eating healthy can successfully complete your fast while staying healthy.
🤲 May Allah accept our fasting and bless us with strength during Ramadan! Ameen.
Would you like more fasting, hydration, or meal-planning tips for Ramadan? 😊
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