Is the Adhan considered the time for abstaining from all that breaks Sawm?
Q 3:
Is the Adhan (call to Prayer) considered the time for abstaining from all that breaks Sawm (Fast)? What is the ruling on the one who drinks after hearing the Adhan though Allah (Exalted be He) states:
...and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night)
A:
If the Adhan is for the break of dawn, it is impermissible to eat or drink after it. However, if it is called before dawn, it is permissible to eat and drink after it because the evidence in this regard is the Ayah (Qur'anic verse) in which Allah (Exalted be He) states:
...and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night)
If someone is in doubt, they can be on the safe side and stop eating and drinking to apply the Hadith in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated:
"So he who guards himself against doubtful things keeps his religion and honor blameless...''
(Part No. 9; Page No. 150) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.