Fasting across religions is practiced for a wide range of reasons that include spiritual purification and self-discipline. Here is a quick look at fasting as an act of faith.
Muslims around the world have welcomed Ramadan, a month of fasting, increased worship, heightened charity, good deeds and community. Christians are also fasting during Lent, the 40-day period of penance and prayer ahead of Easter, which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
ChristianityIn Christianity, fasting is used as a way to purify the body, practice self-control and save resources to give to the poor. Christians often abstain from eating meat on Fridays during Lent, and some for the entire period. Some also give up coffee, candy or another item they see as a personal sacrifice."You're showing your seriousness and your willingness to suffer for your religion," said Deana Weibel, an anthropology and religious studies professor at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan.
Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | RSS Feed | Omny Studio IslamAbstaining from all food and drink — not even a sip of water is allowed — and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan is regarded as an act of piety and devotion to God and an exercise in self-restraint.
The daily fasting is followed by iftar, or breaking of the fast, often in festive gatherings with family and friends.
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