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Why you can't drink water during Ramadan

Last updated on - May 9, 2019, 12:42 IST

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Ramadan and drinking water

The holy month of Ramadan is here and it is all about fast, prayers and food. This annual celebration of the Muslim community is the biggest extravaganza that has many restrictions and it is believed that these restrictions bring you close to the almighty and make the journey of life easier. The festival that lasts for 29-30 days and calls for fasting during the daylight hours and once the sun sets down, people break the fast with dates (khajur). The most notable thing about this fasting is, that you are not allowed to drink water during the day time. Read to know more about the practice.

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Why people fast during Ramadan?

According to Islam religion, fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is considered as one of the five pillars of Islam that also includes a declaration to god, doing charity, standing for five prayers each day, and travelling to Mecca for pilgrimage. The practice of fasting helps ‘cleanse’ the soul and requires people to avoid sinful human behaviours like fighting, sexual activities and cheating others.

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Why water is avoided during Roza?

Avoiding water during the daylight hours is considered as an act of ‘Sabr’. Shahdat Hussain, a fitness trainer, who observes fast says, “According to our religion, avoiding water is a sign of sabr (patience) that is linked to remembering God.” He further says, “Roza never preaches to avoid food and water at the cost of your health. The month is all about restrictions that bring you closer to the almighty and guide you to living a peaceful life.”

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What precautions are taken during Ramadan?

According to health experts, it is suggested to avoid salt and caffeine as both lead to increased thirst and feelings of dehydration. One should drink lots of water during the night hours and should replace processed and high sugar foods with more nutritious and balanced alternatives that have more water content.

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Is it mandatory to observe fast?

According to experts, there are a certain group of people that are exempted from fasting during the holy month that includes children, elderly and pregnant women. It is believed that those with low immunity should avoid fasting, keeping health factor in mind and should only observe fast when considered medically fit.

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Verdict

It is a matter of faith and devotion towards the supreme power that guides the human race. It is good to pay gratitude to the supreme power that guides us, but one should also take personal health into consideration before observing fasts. As far as the consumption of water during the fast is considered, it is restricted as a sign of respect towards the almighty. If any situation comes, where health is at stake, the religion is liberal enough to allow that.

Top Comment

Jim Corrigan

2589 days ago

No. Muslims must not drink any water for period of Ramadan.

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