The Proper Way to Drink Water from the Perspective of the Holy Quran

In the comprehensive and extensive teachings of the Holy Quran, which serves as a guide for all aspects of human life, significant principles and foundations can be extracted for every action, including the act of drinking water. However, it's important to note that the Quran does not directly or in precise detail address specific physical etiquettes for drinking water, such as sitting, drinking in multiple sips, or reciting a particular supplication during consumption. These details are predominantly found in the Sunnah and Prophetic Hadith, which complement and elucidate the Quran. Yet, this does not mean an absence of Quranic guidance regarding water; rather, the Quran emphasizes deeper and more spiritual principles that imbue every act, including drinking water, with devotional value and meaning. The Holy Quran introduces water as one of the greatest signs and blessings of Allah. In numerous verses, the vital importance of water is highlighted. For instance, in Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 30, Allah states: "And We made from water every living thing. Then will they not believe?" This verse clearly articulates the fundamental role of water in the life of all living beings. This scientific truth, rooted in divine revelation, reminds us that every drop of water we drink is the source of our life and everything around us, and therefore, it is a miracle and a sign of the Creator's grandeur. From the Quranic perspective, the 'proper way to drink water' should be interpreted within the broader framework of Quranic teachings about divine blessings and gratitude for them. The first and most crucial principle is gratitude (shukr). In Surah Al-Waqi'ah, verses 68 to 70, Allah asks in an awakening and questioning tone: "Have you considered the water that you drink? Is it you who bring it down from the clouds, or is it We who bring it down? If We willed, We could make it bitter, so why are you not grateful?" These verses explicitly call upon humanity to express gratitude and thankfulness for the blessing of water. Gratitude is not merely confined to uttering 'Alhamdulillah' (Praise be to Allah); rather, it encompasses a deep understanding of the divine origin of this blessing, heartfelt appreciation, and its proper and responsible use. When we drink water, we should pause for a moment and reflect on how this vital liquid descends from the clouds, springs from the earth, and is purified to be readily available to us. This reflection itself is part of gratitude. The second principle is contemplation (tadabbur) on the grandeur of creation. Water is not only the essence of life but also a clear sign of Allah's power and wisdom. In Surah An-Nahl, verse 65, we read: "And Allah has sent down rain from the sky and given life thereby to the earth after its lifelessness. Indeed in that is a sign for a people who listen." This verse invites us to contemplate the cycle of life and the role of water within it. Drinking water can be an opportunity to ponder this divine sign; how Allah, with a simple liquid, revives dead earth and brings forth various crops and fruits. This contemplation transforms the act of drinking water from a mere biological function into a spiritual experience and a connection with the Creator. The third principle is avoiding extravagance (israf) and waste. Although the Quran does not have a specific direct verse regarding extravagance in drinking water, it strongly emphasizes the general principle of avoiding extravagance in all divine blessings. In Surah Al-A'raf, verse 31, it states: "And eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess." While this verse generally refers to eating and drinking, it also applies to water. Therefore, drinking water should be done with moderation and without waste. This means that in the consumption of water, whether for drinking or other uses, we must be careful and avoid extravagance that leads to the waste of this divine blessing. In today's world, where many regions face water scarcity, this Quranic principle gains added importance, reminding us how to responsibly use natural resources. Thus, the proper way to drink water from the perspective of the Holy Quran, rather than focusing on the physical act, emphasizes its spirit and intention. This way includes: firstly, drinking with a heart full of gratitude and thankfulness towards the Lord who has provided this vital blessing. Secondly, contemplating the greatness of creation and the infinite power of Allah, who made water the source of life. Thirdly, consuming water with moderation and avoiding any form of extravagance or waste. When a person approaches drinking water with this spiritual perspective, even a simple daily act transforms into an act of worship and an opportunity to draw closer to Allah. This approach not only contributes to physical health but also nourishes the soul, increasing awareness and connection to the truth of existence. This means living every moment with remembrance of Allah and appreciation for His blessings, even in the simplest tasks, such as drinking a cool glass of water. This method not only brings peace and blessings to the individual but also guides them on the path of environmental preservation and respect for natural resources, as all these are blessings from the Lord.