8432 fasting, practice of

Although fasting is a negative practice, it is not an end in itself but is to be undertaken for a positive purpose.

Fasting is not an end in itself

Fasting as empty ritual is condemned Jer 14:11-12 See also Isa 58:1-7; Zec 7:4-7

Fasting as mere show is condemned Mt 6:16-18 See also Mt 9:14-15 pp Mk 2:18-20 pp Lk 5:33-35 Jesus Christ repudiated fasting for its own sake whilst granting that there is a time and a place for it.

Fasting imposed for false motives 1Sa 14:24-30

Attitudes appropriate to fasting

Humility Ps 35:13 See also 1Ki 21:27-29; Ezr 8:21; Ps 69:10

Repentance 1Sa 7:6 See also Ne 9:1-3; Joel 1:13-14; Joel 2:12-15

Fasting and prayer

Ne 1:4 See also Ezr 8:21-23; Ps 35:13; Da 9:3; Mt 17:20 fn pp Mk 9:29 fn; Lk 2:37; Lk 5:33; Ac 13:3; Ac 14:23; 1Co 7:3-5 The motivation here is similar to that in abstaining from food.

Fasting and worship

Ac 13:2 See also Lk 2:37

See also