Have you ever wondered about the different types of Christian fasts and how the Bible defines fasting? Perhaps you've heard of the Daniel Fast, the Esther Fast, a consecration fast, or a corporate fast but aren’t sure exactly what they mean, or what the Bible says about fasting. There’s also plenty of advice about intermittent fasting for health, but there is more to a spiritual fast than just physical well-being.
This article will explore the importance of fasting in the Christian religion, investigate various forms of fasting mentioned in the Bible, scrutinize significant scriptures related to fasting and prayer, discuss the purpose of fasting, and offer practical advice on how to connect with God through fasting while also considering the act of serving others during this period.
What is Christian Fasting?
Christian fasting is abstinence from food or drink for a specific period while focusing on prayer and fellowship with God. Spiritual preparation and guidance from the Holy Spirit are key for biblical fasting. Although we can get caught up in “rules” about food and eating, a spiritual fast is first about God and our relationship with Him.
Examples of fasting in the Bible show different types of fasting, including when Moses fasted for forty days (Exodus 34:28) and when Jesus fasted for forty days (Luke 4:2).
Biblical Fasting Defined
Before discussing specific types of fasting in the Bible, let's explore how the Bible defines the words fast and fasting. This will give us a solid biblical foundation before diving into several different types of Christian fasts and how we practice them.
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The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Koine Greek. Most scholars agree the New Testament was written in Greek, although these texts may have been translated from Hebrew and Aramaic originals. When you pull out your Bible dictionary or consult your favorite Bible study tool, here are the major definitions for fasting in the Old and New Testaments.
ṣûm, tsûwm, tsoom (Strong's H6684): Meaning to cover over (the mouth); to abstain from food; the primary idea lies in the mouth being shut.
- Example: "Then all the sons of Israel and all the people went up and came to Bethel, and they wept and remained there before the LORD, and fasted (H6684) that day until evening. And they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD." -Judges 20:26
- Example: "So we fasted (H6684) and sought our God concerning this matter, and He]listened to our pleading." -Ezra 8:23
- Example: "Go, gather all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast (H6684) for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants also will fast H6684 in the same way. And then I will go in to the king, which is not in accordance with the law; and if I perish, I perish." -Esther 4:16
nēsteuō (Strong's G3522): Defined as "to abstain as a religious exercise from food and drink: either entirely, if the fast lasted but a single day, or from customary and choice nourishment if it continued several days."
- Example: "And after He had fasted (G3522) for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry." -Matthew 4:2
- Example: "But as for you, when you fast (G3522), anoint your head and wash your face" -Matthew 6:17
- Example: "Then, when they had fasted (G3522), prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away." -Acts 13:3
nāzar (Strong's H5144): This means to separate, dedicate, and consecrate; to dedicate or devote oneself; to keep sacredly separate. This term is used for living as a Nazirite or taking a Nazirite vow. It also includes abstaining from food, drink, and impurity.
- Example: "And so you shall keep (H5144) the sons of Israel separated (H5144) from their uncleanness, so that they will not die in their uncleanness by their defiling My tabernacle that is among them." - Leviticus 15:31
- Example: "Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, 'When a man or woman makes a special vow, namely, the vow of a Nazirite, to live as a Nazirite (H5144) for the LORD, he shall abstain (H5144) from wine and strong drink; he shall consume no vinegar, whether made from wine or strong drink, nor shall he drink any grape juice nor eat fresh or dried grapes." -Numbers 6:1-2
- Example: speaking to the priests who belong to the house of the LORD of armies, and to the prophets, saying, "Shall I weep in the fifth month and fast (H5144), as I have done these many years?"
The Heart of a Biblical Fast
Abstaining from comforts and biblical fasting are about more than deprivation. When we fast, we are setting ourselves apart for a purpose. It’s not just about outward behavior but also seeking the Lord with our heart, soul, and mind.
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Another crucial passage of scripture to read before you fast (I like to read this every time I fast) is Isaiah 58. The Lord answers some questions about our days of fasting and what makes them effective. God clarifies that fasting is about more than food and drink. It’s not a practice of going through the motions.
4 Basic Types of Christian Fasts
Now let's talk about the types of Christian fasts many churches most commonly refer to and practice. We must remember that our eating habits and the plethora of available food options are very different from biblical times. You can't ask if Daniel included peanut butter on his eating plan because he didn’t even have access to peanuts!
The Bible doesn't spell out a prescription for every aspect of living and worshiping the Lord. For example, we don’t see a requirement for how long and how often we’re supposed to pray. Fasting is similar.
Rather than giving a legal command and requirement of exactly how to fast, the Bible shows us a wide variety of examples of the practice of fasting. With this in mind…enter into prayer and fasting with a humble heart. Study what the Bible says about fasting and let the Holy Spirit lead you. Consider how fasting can cultivate discipline, crucify your flesh, and teach you to live not by bread alone but by the word of God. (Matthew 4:4)
Through it all, remain in God’s grace. Maintain your focus on the purpose and prize of fasting: your relationship with the Lord.
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1. Complete Fast
The complete fast is a Christian water-only fast, abstaining from all food. This is a challenging undertaking but very rewarding both physically and spiritually. And there is definitely a biblical basis for this type of fast.
When the Bible mentions someone fasting, in most cases, we assume it's a water-only fast. For example, see the stories of Jehoshaphat, Ezra, and Nehemiah. Usually, the first few days of a water-only fast are the most difficult. But after working through the initial side effects and discomfort, most people report feeling clear, focused, and receive a boost of energy.
When fasting all food, it is crucial to drink plenty of water, get lots of rest, and spend time in prayer. If you're brand new to fasting, you may want to start with a liquid or partial fast (two types we'll talk about next) before diving into a complete fast.
Another option is to start with a one-day fast and gradually increase the fasting period in subsequent fasts. The Bible doesn't always say how long people fasted, but in some cases, like Judges 20:26 or 1 Samuel 7:6, the fasting period lasts just one day or until the evening.
2. Liquid Fast
Another option is a liquid fast, where you abstain from all food but allow liquids such as smoothies, fresh juices, and pureed soups. And, of course, drink lots of water throughout the day!
For many people, a liquid fast is an ideal way to cleanse the body and mind and reset their eating habits. It's an easier place to start than a complete fast for most. Remember that you don’t want to consume sugary beverages, which can cause your blood sugar to spike and crash.
The goal isn't to drink constantly throughout the day but to give your body energy through healthy liquid options at regular intervals.
Juice fasts are also included in this category. Although we have many readymade options, making your own fresh juices at home is ideal.
You may ask, "So…can I drink whatever I want?" Only you can decide if your fast should include a Venti Starbucks frappuccino. But do consider the following:
- What are the most nourishing drinks for my body? (Soft drinks, energy drinks, coffee drinks, etc., do not qualify!)
- Am I fasting to grow closer to God and give up temporary satisfaction, or am I still dependent on worldly substances to pacify my stress, energize me, and get me through my day?
Keep in mind that the Bible doesn't mention juice cleanses or smoothie fasts. Blenders weren't invented, and protein powder wasn't readily available. However, liquid-only fasts are a popular option for spiritual fasting. Again, the spirit of fasting is separating from the world (and food) and drawing closer to God.
3. Partial Fast
A partial fast involves restricting when you eat or what you eat. In the first case, you restrict the times of day you eat. The more common interpretation of a Christian partial fasting, however, is choosing what types of food to eat or abstain from.
The Daniel Fast, for example, is a popular Christian fast. Based on Daniel's experience in the Bible, it involves abstaining from meats, sweets, and bread while still consuming whole, plant-based foods and water. Daniel was taken captive to Babylon and placed in the king’s court. However, not wanting to be defiled by the king’s food, he made a special request to the captain of the guard. “Please put your servants to the test for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink.” (Daniel 1:12)
Later, Daniel entered a 21-day period of fasting: “In those days, I, Daniel, had been mourning for three entire weeks. I did not eat any tasty food, nor did meat or wine enter my mouth, nor did I use any ointment at all until the entire three weeks were completed.” (Daniel 10:2-3)
Choosing to abstain from certain foods during the season of Lent is another example of partial fasting.
When you're brand new to fasting, partial fasts can be an excellent first step but don't confuse it with a diet or healthy eating plan. Fasting should involve a level of sacrifice that challenges your flesh. And, as always, the focus is not solely on what you eat (or losing weight) but primarily on drawing closer to the Lord and strengthening your spirit.
4. Supernatural or Absolute Fast
In an absolute fast, no food or water is consumed. This type of fast is rare and usually only lasts for a short period of time. Most would recommend, and I would agree, that the vast majority should NOT abstain from water while fasting.
Going without water can be deadly. Although the average person can survive three days without water, many conditions and factors can shorten that window. Even mild dehydration, which can occur after simply being out in the heat, can cause many medical problems.
There are only a few examples of absolute fasts in the Bible. One would be in Jonah chapter three when the king proclaimed that no one should eat or drink as they turned from their ways and called out to God.
In the book of Acts, Paul was blinded and didn't eat or drink for three days after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus. The Bible records an example of an absolute fast when Moses went up on Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments from God for 40 days. He was there with the Lord for forty days and forty nights and didn't eat or drink water. (Exodus 34:28) This was a very intense and unique time. Moses was specifically called and remained in the very presence of God during this time.
6 Other Christian Fasting Terms to Know
Now that we've covered the common categories of fasts, let's talk about some other terms related to biblical fasting.
Corporate Fast
A corporate fast is done together as a church or group. They usually have a specific purpose or goal and last for a set period of time. Although Jesus talked about fasting in private in Matthew chapter six, this was about not publicly displaying your fasting to draw attention and praise from people. The Bible gives many examples of people fasting in groups for a common purpose. Just one example is Acts chapter 13, where we see the church at Antioch come together and fast before sending off Barnabas and Saul on their missionary journey. Fasting with other believers is powerful and provides much-needed support.
Daniel Fast
As we already mentioned, this is a partial fast where you abstain from eating meats, sweets, and alcohol but can still consume fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
It is based on the book of Daniel and specifically chapter one, where he asks to be tested by eating only vegetables for ten days. The book of Daniel records two other instances where Daniel fasted. One of those is: "At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. -Daniel 10:2-3
Normal Fast
A normal fast involves abstaining from all food, but not from water. To abstain from food but to drink water or other liquids is the most common kind of Christian fast.
Private Fast
A private fast is what Jesus was speaking of in Matthew 6, when he said that we should fast in a way not to be noticed by others. Though done outside the view of people, God certainly sees and promises to reward those who seek Him this way.
Small Group Fast
Fasting can also be a group exercise done together as a shared commitment. Consider the example found in Acts 13:1-3: "Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
Examples of Fasting in the Bible
Fasting is a significant spiritual practice found throughout the Bible, often used during times of preparation, repentance, or seeking God’s guidance. In Exodus 34:28, Moses fasted for forty days and nights on Mount Sinai as he received the Ten Commandments. This act of complete dependence on God showed his spiritual readiness to receive divine instruction. Similarly, in 2 Samuel 12:16, King David fasted and prayed for his dying child, expressing deep remorse and humility. Although the child did not survive, David’s fast reflected his sincere repentance and submission to God’s will.
In Esther 4:16, Queen Esther called for a three-day fast before approaching King Xerxes to plead for her people’s lives. Her fast, joined by the Jewish community, demonstrated courage and reliance on God in the face of danger. In the New Testament, Jesus fasted for forty days in the wilderness before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:1-2). This period prepared Him spiritually and strengthened Him to resist temptation. The early church also fasted when appointing leaders, as seen in Acts 14:23, relying on God’s guidance rather than human wisdom.
These examples show that fasting was never just a ritual-it was a way to focus on God earnestly, prepare for spiritual challenges, and align more closely with His will.
The Purpose of Fasting
Christians engage in biblical fasting for many reasons firmly grounded in their religious beliefs and spiritual quests. One primary purpose of biblical fasting is to seek divine guidance. During periods of ambiguity or significant life choices, Christians fast to pursue clarity and direction from the divine. By refraining from consuming food and directing their attention towards prayer, individuals can achieve a state of mental and emotional calmness, allowing them to see and understand God’s intentions for their existence more effectively.
Repentance is another important objective of biblical fasting for Christians. Fasting is frequently linked to remorse and the pursuit of absolution for transgressions. By fasting, believers demonstrate humility in the presence of God, recognizing their imperfections and transgressions, and earnestly desiring His compassion and favor. It serves to exhibit sincere regret and a longing for personal transformation.
Additionally, prayer and fasting serve as a method for spiritual rejuvenation and revitalization. During periods when people experience a lack of spiritual connection or distance from God, spiritual fasting can trigger rejuvenation and revitalization. Through renouncing earthly indulgences and diversions, adherents can redirect their concentration towards God, establish a stronger connection with Him, and encounter a renewed manifestation of His divine presence and influence in their existence.
Christians also engage in fasting to intercede for others. Fasting can serve as a potent demonstration of unity and support for individuals experiencing hardship or need. Through self-denial and abstaining from basic needs, adherents can cultivate empathy for the struggles of others and provide them with spiritual support through prayer. Engaging in intercessory fasting showcases a generous affection for others and a need to witness divine intervention and restoration of their existence. Fasting allows believers to focus on their faith and seek God in prayer.
It is crucial to underscore that fasting is not intended to earn God’s favor or manipulate Him. Instead, it pertains to humbling oneself in God’s presence and displaying reliance solely on Him. Fasting is a religious practice that recognizes God’s supreme power and control over every aspect of existence. It is a manifestation of belief that showcases reliance on God’s sustenance and direction.
Christians engage in fasting for many purposes, including seeking divine guidance, expressing remorse, experiencing spiritual rejuvenation, and interceding on behalf of others. This practice has been seen throughout the Bible and is mentioned in numerous fasting and prayer scriptures. Engaging in fasting allows believers to focus on spiritual goals, seek the Lord, and align themselves more closely with God’s will. Whether through a complete fast, a partial fast, or other forms, fasting remains a central element of Christian spiritual life. The spiritual benefits of fasting include demonstrating devotion, furthering one’s connection with God, and fostering humility, reliance, and belief. By fasting, believers can experience the power of the Holy Spirit and witness the transformational actions of God in their lives and the surrounding environment. Fasting also helps Christians cultivate a closer relationship with God and pursue spiritual purposes, making it a vital practice in their faith journey.
How to Seek God With Fasting
Seeking God through fasting entails allocating specific periods for prayer, contemplation, and introspection on the teachings of God. Fasting was often practiced to seek divine guidance and experience spiritual breakthroughs. It is crucial to fast with a humble and remorseful heart, earnestly seeking God’s guidance and direction in every aspect of life. This spiritual discipline has a biblical foundation for fasting, demonstrated through numerous examples in the scriptures.