Going Without: Why People Fast

Imagine you have not eaten or drunk anything since you woke up this morning. Your stomach is rumbling. It is now afternoon. How do you think you would feel? Now imagine millions of people around the world are doing exactly the same thing — on purpose — because it is important to them. Why might someone choose to go without food or drink? Think of one idea before you read on.

**What is fasting?** Fasting means going without food, drink, or both for a set period of time. Many religions include fasting as an important practice. People fast for lots of reasons — to feel closer to God, to show self-discipline, to remember those who are hungry, or to prepare the mind and body for something holy. **Islam — Ramadan** Muslims fast during a month called Ramadan. Every day during Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or drink from dawn (the first light of day) until sunset (when the sun goes down). This fast is called Sawm and it is one of the Five Pillars — the five most important duties in Islam. After sunset, families break the fast together with a meal called Iftar. Muslims say fasting helps them feel grateful, grow closer to Allah (God), and understand what it feels like to be hungry. **Judaism — Yom Kippur** Jews fast on a holy day called Yom Kippur, which means 'Day of Atonement'. Atonement means saying sorry for wrongs you have done and trying to make things right. Jewish adults do not eat or drink for about 25 hours. The fast helps people focus completely on prayer and reflection. **Christianity — Lent and other fasts** Many Christians fast or give something up during a 40-day period called Lent, before Easter. Some Christians give up a favourite food. Others fast on certain days. Fasting during Lent is a way of remembering the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert without food. **Hinduism — Ekadashi and other days** Hindus may fast on special days called Ekadashi, which happen twice a month, or on days linked to their chosen deity (a god or goddess). Some Hindus eat no food at all; others eat only fruit or simple foods. Fasting is seen as a way to purify the body and mind and to show devotion. **What do these fasts have in common?** Even though the rules are different in each faith, fasting is usually about more than just not eating. It is about discipline (controlling yourself), devotion (showing love for God), and reflection (thinking carefully about your life and beliefs).