Among the rules of Hygiene, and to maintain the health and well-being of the human body—which should be cared for and not neglected—it is forbidden to drink water and other beverages while standing due to numerous health issues, which are as follows:
1. A person is not properly hydrated, and thirst is not effectively quenched.
2. Water does not settle properly in the stomach, impairing the liver’s ability to properly divide and supply water to the organs.
3. The drink enters the stomach quickly and abruptly, which can be harmful.
4. It causes a rapid reduction in internal heat.
5. Water spreads quickly to the ends of the body rather than gradually and slowly.
Drinking Water in Three Breaths
Drinking water all at once is harmful to the human body. The blessed habit of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was to drink water in three sips. This method has its benefits; as the Holy Prophet, may Allah’s prayers and peace be upon him, said: “This is more satiating, lighter, and less harmful.”
By allowing water to enter the stomach in small amounts, the temperature of the stomach gradually decreases, preventing issues associated with low pressure and a sudden drop in body temperature.
The Dangers of Sudden Drinking
Sudden drinking can lead to possible blockage of the water channels and throat congestion, as well as an inability to properly hydrate and cool down the heart and liver simultaneously. If a person drinks water in smaller quantities multiple times, the warm steam gradually escapes from the heart and liver, which is beneficial.
Eating and Drinking from the Broken Side of a Dish or Glass
Abu Saeed Khadri may Allah be pleased with him, reports that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, forbade drinking from the broken part of a cup and blowing into it while drinking.
If we look closely, this instruction has extremely wise importance. Drinking from a defective glass or container has several disadvantages:
1. Pus can accumulate in the broken part.
2. It creates anxiety and discomfort for the drinker, making the act of drinking unenjoyable.
3. Pus and fat accumulate in it, making it difficult to clean.
4. It can cause injuries to the lips and mouth of the drinker.
Putting the Opening of the Water Skin in the Mouth and Drinking Water
In Sahih Muslim, according to the narration of Jabir bin Abdullah, may Allah be pleased with him, it is stated: “Cover the dishes and close the water skins.”
This method of drinking water presents the following health and hygiene disadvantages:
1. Continuous breathing while drinking can spread bad smells and stench to the opening of the water skin, which is naturally distasteful for humans.
2. Drinking excessive amounts of water is harmful.
3. There are often insects present that can enter the mouth without being noticed.
4. Occasionally, thorns and thistles can enter the stomach through this method.
5. Drinking while standing can result in swallowing more air than fluid, potentially leading to discomfort. There are also other wisdoms that may not be known to us.