Biblical fasts vary in length and purpose. The Day of Atonement required self-affliction, while individuals and communities also proclaimed fasts during grief, danger, or repentance.
Customs & Culture
Fasting
Fasting involved abstaining from food for a religious purpose such as mourning, repentance, prayer, crisis, or preparation for service.
Primary Scripture
Historical and Cultural Background
Biblical Examples
David fasts during his child's illness, Esther calls for a communal fast, Jesus teaches about fasting without display, and the church fasts before sending Barnabas and Saul.
Biblical Significance
Fasting was a recognizable religious discipline, which is why Jesus focuses not on explaining the practice but on the motives and manner of those who fast.
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Common Misconceptions
Biblical fasting is not presented as a technique that mechanically forces God to grant a request.
Historical Setting and Evidence
Culture: Ancient Near Eastern, Israelite, Judean/Jewish, Greek/Hellenistic, Roman
Period: Exodus and Wilderness, Conquest and Judges, United Monarchy, Divided Monarchy, Kingdom of Judah, Babylonian Exile, Persian Period, Hellenistic Period, Hasmonean Period, Roman / Second Temple Period, Apostolic / Early Church Period
Evidence: Well Attested
Interpretive Importance: Major
Well attested throughout Scripture and in Jewish and early Christian sources.
Scripture References
Related Information
Sources
Ezra 8; Esther 4; Matthew 6; Luke 18; Acts 13