A Day of Fasting in the biblical context is a designated time set aside for abstaining from food and sometimes drink, as a means of humbling oneself before God, seeking His guidance, expressing repentance, or interceding for others. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that is deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition and is mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, fasting is often associated with mourning, repentance, and seeking God's favor. One of the most significant fasts is the Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur, which is the only fast day explicitly commanded in the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 16:29-31 instructs the Israelites: "This is to be a permanent statute for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month, you must humble yourselves and not do any work... It is a Sabbath of solemn rest for you, that you may humble yourselves; it is a permanent statute."

Fasting is also seen in times of national crisis or personal distress. For example, in the Book of Esther, Queen Esther calls for a fast among the Jews in Susa before she approaches King Xerxes to plead for her people (Esther 4:16): "Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maidens will fast as you do."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, fasting continues to be an important practice. Jesus Himself fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:2): "After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry." Jesus also taught about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and humility (Matthew 6:16-18): "When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting... But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but only to your Father, who is unseen."

The early church practiced fasting as well, often in conjunction with prayer, as seen in Acts 13:2-3 : "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off."

Purpose and Practice

Fasting is a voluntary act of worship and devotion, intended to draw believers closer to God. It is often accompanied by prayer, meditation on Scripture, and acts of charity. The purpose of fasting is not to earn favor with God through self-denial, but to express dependence on Him, seek His will, and align one's heart with His purposes.

Throughout the Bible, fasting is portrayed as a powerful spiritual tool that can lead to personal transformation, divine intervention, and a deeper understanding of God's will. It is a practice that encourages believers to focus on spiritual matters, setting aside physical needs to prioritize their relationship with God.