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Brachos Learning Course – Semicha
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Not thirsty – Is a blessing said over a beverage when not being drunk due to thirst:[1]
Water: A blessing is only said over water when one receives instant benefit from the water. Thus, while a blessing is said prior to drinking water when thirsty, no blessing is said when drinking water only to dislodge food from ones throat or for health reasons or to swallow a pill, as water is tasteless and does not receive a blessing if one is not directly benefiting from the water.
Other drinks: All drinks other than water require a blessing to be said prior to their consumption being that they have a beneficial taste, unlike water which is tasteless. Thus, a blessing is said prior to drinking drinks other than water even when not thirsty, and one is drinking it simply to dislodge food from ones throat or for health reasons or to swallow a pill since he benefits from the taste.
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Does one recite a blessing when drinking water for the purpose of hydration such as before a fast or travel?[2] No.
Is a blessing said on the liquid used to help swallow a pill?[3] Plain water: No blessing is said. Flavored water, soda; fruit juice etc: A blessing is said Seltzer: If one drinks a small amount to merely swallow the pill then no blessing is said.
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| Beverage | Situation | Blessing Required? | Reason/Notes |
| Water | Drinking when thirsty | Yes | One receives instant benefit from the water |
| Water | Drinking to dislodge food, for health, or to swallow a pill | No | Water is tasteless; no direct benefit |
| Water | Drinking for hydration before a fast or travel | No | |
| Other drinks (not water) | Any reason, even not thirsty, including dislodging food, health, or swallowing a pill | Yes | Beneficial taste |
| Flavored water, soda, fruit juice | Used to help swallow a pill | Yes | |
| Seltzer | Small amount to merely swallow a pill | No |
[1] Seder 7:7; Admur 204:13; Ketzos Hashulchan 50:5
[2] Piskeiy Teshuvos 204:15
[3] Piskeiy Teshuvoa 204:16
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