Fasting in religion

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Brooklyn Museum - Jesus Tempted in the Wilderness (Jésus tenté dans le désert) - James Tissot - overall

Lenten supper according to the Daniel Fast

Fried Fish and French Fries

Fasting

Fasting in religion is a practice observed in various faiths that involves abstaining from food, drink, or both for spiritual reasons. It is a ritual that dates back thousands of years and is seen as a way to purify the body and mind, demonstrate devotion to a deity, and foster a deeper sense of spiritual awareness. This article explores the significance, practices, and variations of fasting across different religions.

Buddhism

In Buddhism, fasting is not universally practiced but is observed by some followers as a means to aid meditation and self-discipline. The Middle Way, a path of moderation away from the extremes of self-indulgence and self-mortification, is advocated by the Buddha. Some Buddhist monks and nuns follow a disciplined life with one meal a day before noon, abstaining from eating at night and fasting on certain days of the lunar month.

Christianity

Christianity observes fasting as a practice of penitence, spiritual discipline, and preparation for certain holy days. The Lenten fast, leading up to Easter, is the most notable period of fasting, lasting for 40 days in commemoration of Jesus Christ's fasting in the desert. Different Christian denominations have varying guidelines for fasting during Lent and other times such as Advent, with some abstaining from meat on Fridays or engaging in partial fasts.

Hinduism

Fasting in Hinduism is a voluntary act of spiritual purification and a way to increase concentration during meditation and prayer. It is widely practiced on certain days of the week or month, dedicated to various deities, and during festivals like Navaratri and Ekadashi. The nature of the fast varies, with some individuals consuming only fruits and milk, while others abstain from all food and drink.

Islam

In Islam, fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all adult Muslims, with exceptions for those who are ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, traveling, or menstruating. The fast begins at dawn and ends at sunset, with no food or drink consumed during daylight hours. The fast is broken with a meal known as iftar, which traditionally starts with dates and water, followed by prayer and a larger meal.

Judaism

Judaism observes several fast days, the most significant being Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. On this day, a 25-hour fast is observed, accompanied by intensive prayer and repentance. Other Jewish fast days include Tisha B'Av, commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, and minor fasts like the Fast of Esther and the Fast of Gedaliah, which are observed from dawn to dusk.

Sikhism

Fasting is not commonly practiced in Sikhism, as it is believed that spiritual needs should not be fulfilled by causing physical suffering to the body. However, individual Sikhs may choose to fast for personal reasons, though this is not seen as a means to attain spiritual growth or favor with God.

Conclusion

Fasting in religion serves multiple purposes, from physical and spiritual purification to expressing devotion and humility before the divine. Despite the differences in practices and beliefs across religions, fasting universally symbolizes a period of reflection, self-discipline, and deeper spiritual connection.