What Bracha for Water?
Learn the Shehakol blessing for water and beverages
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם שֶׁהַכֹּל נִהְיָה בִּדְבָרוֹ
Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha'olam, shehakol nihiyeh bidvaro.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, through whose word everything came to be.
When to Say Shehakol on Water
The blessing "Shehakol" is recited before drinking water. This applies to:
- Plain water (tap, filtered, bottled, mineral)
- Sparkling water / seltzer
- Flavored water (unless it contains fruit juice)
- Ice water
Why Shehakol?
Shehakol is known as the "general" blessing, used for foods and drinks that don't fit into more specific bracha categories. Since water doesn't grow from the ground or trees and isn't made from grain or grapes, it receives this universal blessing acknowledging that God created everything.
When is a Bracha Required?
A bracha on water is required when you drink to:
- Quench thirst - The primary reason for drinking water
- For pleasure - Even if not particularly thirsty
- Cool down - On a hot day
When No Bracha is Needed
You do NOT say a bracha on water in these situations:
- Swallowing medicine - Water used only to help swallow pills
- During a bread meal - Hamotzi covers drinks during the meal
- To clear your throat - If drinking only to aid swallowing food stuck in throat
After Drinking Water
After drinking water (a revi'it or more, approximately 3 oz), you say the "Borei Nefashot" after-blessing if you drank within a short time span.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Sparkling water, seltzer, and mineral water all receive the same "Shehakol" blessing as regular water.
When eating a meal that began with Hamotzi (bread), all drinks including water are covered by that blessing. No separate bracha is needed.
If you're drinking water solely to swallow a pill, no bracha is required. However, if you drink more than necessary or are also thirsty, a bracha should be said.