Fasting is the practice of abstaining from food, either completely or partially, for a specified period of time. It is an ancient practice found in most religions of the world. Recent scientific research suggests that fasting may be healthful and, when engaged in carefully, may bring about heightened states of consciousness and sensibility. Traditionally, fasting has been a widely used form of Asceticism and a penitential practice observed for the purpose of purifying the person or of atoning for sins and wrongdoing.

The Bible mentions fasting 74 times, and Jesus himself fasted frequently, sometimes up to 40 days at a time. Most religions designate certain days of the week or seasons as times of fasting for their adherents. Certain events in the lives of individual persons have been considered appropriate times for fasting. Prayer is also supposed to accompany fasting. 

---

• The Book of Fasts and Abstinence "The canonical observance of fasts is indeed valuable and by all means to be kept. But unless this is followed by a temperate partaking of food, one will not be able to arrive at the goal of perfection."
• The Essene Science of Fasting We eat much more than is necessary for the organism as regards both quantity and quality. Fasting is a good counterbalancing factor against the various alimentary excesses which, by our unnatural mode of life, we accumulate in the organism.
• Fasting and Sobriety From the Essene Gospel of Peace: Fast till all evils depart from you, and all the angels of our Earthly Mother come and serve you.
• Therapeutic Fasting The Bible mentions fasting 74 times, and Jesus himself fasted frequently, sometimes up to 40 days at a time.

---

Return to The Nazarene Way main menu
 Email us at: Comments@TheNazareneWay.com
Subscribe to: The Essene Holy Communions
Sign our Guest Book!

Fasting and Abstinence