Listening to music does not break a religious fast. However, the impact of music on a person's physical well-being during a fast is a separate issue.
Religious Fasting and Music
The provided reference from IslamQA states that while listening to music might detract from the spiritual rewards of fasting during Ramadan, it does not invalidate the fast itself. https://islamqa.info/en/answers/12647/can-you-listen-to-music-in-ramadan This applies specifically to religious fasting contexts. Other types of fasting may have different considerations.
Physical Effects and Music
While listening to music doesn't directly break a fast (in a dietary sense), other factors related to music listening could indirectly affect one's physical state during a fast:
- Loud Music and Physical Strain: Listening to music at high volumes, especially through headphones, can cause physical strain and headaches (as noted in a Quora post and a Reddit thread). This could be more pronounced during a fast due to potential dehydration or reduced energy levels. https://www.quora.com/Is-it-OK-if-my-head-hurts-when-I-listen-to-music-It-starts-hurting-after-4-songs-or-sometimes-less, https://www.reddit.com/r/askscience/comments/1cc400/if_you_listen_to_music_loudly_via_earphones_in_a/
- Music and Mood: Upbeat or stressful music could increase physical tension and heart rate, potentially impacting someone's experience during a fast. Conversely, calming music might have a relaxing effect. https://www.tmh.org/healthy-living/blogs/healthy-living/how-music-affects-your-mind-mood-and-body
It's important to note that these are indirect effects and not a direct consequence of the music itself breaking the fast.
