Many wonder about this, especially when engaged in acts like reading the Quran or praying in the mosque, where saliva production may increase.
Islamic scholars have provided clear guidance on this matter. The consensus is that a fasting person swallowing his saliva does not affect the fast.
However, if the saliva is thick like mucus, it is better to spit it out rather than swallowing it. This distinction is based on the understanding that saliva in its normal form does not carry the qualities of food or drink and therefore does not nullify the fast.
Does Swallowing Saliva Break the Fast?
No, Swallowing Saliva Does Not Invalidate Fasting.
If you naturally swallow your saliva—even in large amounts—your fast remains valid whether you are in the mosque or elsewhere.
When saliva is produced as a natural bodily function, it does not fall under the categories of food or drink that invalidate the fast.
Evidence
- Al-Lajnah al-Daimah li’l-Buhuth wa’l-Ifta (1-/270): It is stated that if a fasting person swallows his saliva, it does not invalidate his fast, even if there is a lot of it. However, if the saliva is thick like mucus, one should avoid swallowing it and instead spit it out.
- Al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 6/428 (by Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy on him): The explanation clarifies that while it is haram to deliberately swallow thick mucus due to its impurities and potential to carry diseases, swallowing normal saliva does not break the fast since it is not regarded as food or drink.
Bottom Line
Even if you produce a lot of saliva while reading the Quran or praying, your fast remains valid. However, if you encounter thick, mucus-like saliva, it is better to spit it out rather than swallowing it.
May Allah grant us ease in our acts of worship and protect our health during Ramadan. And Allah knows best.
Got a question? Feel free to ask mufti and get quick answers.
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