Fasting in the Bible: Meaning, Types, and Spiritual Purpose
What is Fasting in the Bible?
Fasting in the Bible is a spiritual discipline in which individuals voluntarily abstain from food, and sometimes water, to focus more intentionally on prayer, repentance, and seeking God. The Hebrew word for fasting, tsom, and the Greek word nēsteia both carry the literal meaning of abstaining from food. However, in Scripture, fasting is not merely an external practice but a deeply spiritual act that aligns the heart with God's will.
Richard Foster, in his book Celebration of Discipline, writes, "Fasting reveals the things that control us." Fasting is never about self-punishment or outward displays of piety. Instead, it’s about drawing closer to God and loosening the grip of our attachments. Biblical fasting brings to the surface our dependency, not just on food, but on God as our true sustainer. It is an act of humility and surrender (Psalm 35:13), a call to repentance (Joel 2:12), and a channel for intimate worship (Luke 2:37).
When we fast we better understand the gift of bread, the gift of presence, the gift of blessings.
Why Do People Fast in the Bible?
Throughout the Old and New Testaments, people fast for many reasons. The most common motivations include:
To seek God’s guidance – In times of national or personal crisis, God’s people often fasted and prayed for clarity and direction (Judges 20:26; Acts 13:2–3).
As an act of repentance – Fasting was frequently connected to confession and turning from sin (Jonah 3:5–10; Nehemiah 9:1). Read “Jonah and the Fish: A Love Story”
To mourn and lament – David fasted when his child was gravely ill (2 Samuel 12:16), and others fasted in grief or national tragedy.
To prepare for ministry or sacred moments – Jesus fasted before beginning His public ministry (Luke 4:1–2), and Ezra led a fast before embarking on a dangerous journey (Ezra 8:21–23).
To intensify prayer – Fasting often accompanies fervent, focused prayer (Daniel 9:3; Nehemiah 1:4).
In each case, fasting is an embodied way of saying, "God, I need You more than I need anything else."
Examples of Fasting in the Bible
The Bible gives us many examples of individuals and communities who fasted for different reasons. Here is a brief overview:
| Person | Reason | Duration | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moses | Meeting with God | 40 days | Exodus 34:28 |
| David | Pleading for child's life | 7 days | 2 Samuel 12:16 |
| Esther & Jews | Seeking protection | 3 days | Esther 4:16 |
| Daniel | Seeking insight and humility | 21 days (partial) | Daniel 10:2–3 |
| Jesus | Preparing for ministry | 40 days | Luke 4:1–2 |
| Early Church | Appointing leaders | Variable | Acts 13:2–3 |
Each fast is different in length and purpose, but all share a common thread: dependence on God.
Types of Fasting in the Bible
Scripture presents a variety of fasting practices:
Total Fast: Abstaining from both food and water (Esther 4:16; Acts 9:9). These are typically short-term due to physical limitations.
Normal Fast: Abstaining from all food, but still drinking water (Matthew 4:2).
Partial Fast: Limiting certain foods or meals (Daniel 10:3), often practiced for longer durations.
Corporate Fast: An entire group or nation joins in fasting together (Joel 2:15–16; 2 Chronicles 20:3).
These categories help modern believers understand that biblical fasting is adaptable but always rooted in spiritual intent.
Fasting and Prayer: A Powerful Combination
Biblical fasting is almost always paired with prayer. While prayer can stand alone, fasting deepens its intensity. In Mark 9:29, Jesus implies that certain spiritual breakthroughs require both prayer and fasting. The connection isn’t transactional, but relational. Fasting doesn’t coerce God; it opens us to Him.
Richard Foster suggests that fasting exposes our inward desires and sharpens our awareness of God’s presence. Fasting, in this way, is not about getting something from God, but becoming someone in relationship with Him.
Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster is a seminal work on Christian spiritual formation that has guided generations of believers in pursuing a deeper life with God.
The book explores twelve classic disciplines—including fasting, prayer, solitude, and simplicity—framed as means of grace rather than burdens of obligation. Foster, emphasizes that the spiritual disciplines are not ends in themselves but pathways into freedom, transformation, and intimacy with God. See more here
Books About Fasting
For those seeking to explore the spiritual discipline of fasting more deeply, there are a number of excellent resources that offer theological insight, practical guidance, and spiritual encouragement. Whether from the early church or modern voices in Protestant spirituality, these works help believers recover fasting not as a forgotten burden, but as a meaningful path into deeper intimacy with God.
These books approach fasting not as a legalistic requirement, but as an invitation—a grace-filled discipline that clears space for prayer, humility, and dependence on God. Some are grounded in ancient Christian wisdom; others speak with clarity and relevance to the modern church. Together, they offer a well-rounded picture of how fasting can shape the Christian life. Some of the links are affiliates.
I was first exposed to the concepts of spiritual disciplines in college and seminary, especially through books like Celebration of Discipline and The Spirit of the Disciplines (both listed below). As I read more from church history, I saw that people like John Chrysostom were focused on this when Christianity was fledgling. Enjoy the resources below. I hope they help.
Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster (1978)
A modern classic that has shaped generations of Protestant Christians, Foster’s book explores twelve spiritual disciplines, including fasting. He frames fasting not as deprivation, but as a means of feasting on God. Written with pastoral sensitivity, it remains one of the most balanced and accessible introductions to Christian spiritual formation. Learn more here
Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun (2005)
Calhoun offers a rich, ecumenical guide to spiritual practices, with short chapters on over sixty disciplines. Her section on fasting includes Scripture, reflection prompts, and practical steps. This book works well for personal devotion, group study, or ministry training. Learn more here
On the Holy Fast (Homily 20 on Matthew) by John Chrysostom (4th Century)
In this timeless sermon, the early church father challenges superficial fasting and calls the church to couple fasting with justice, prayer, and mercy. Though ancient, Chrysostom’s insights remain piercingly relevant. His vision of fasting is deeply ethical, grounded in both Scripture and pastoral concern. Free resource here!
The Spirit of the Disciplines by Dallas Willard (1988)
Willard builds a theological and philosophical case for the disciplines, offering deeper rationale behind practices like fasting, solitude, and silence. While not a step-by-step manual, this book helps readers grasp why such disciplines are essential for a Christ-shaped life. It pairs well with more practical guides like Foster’s. Learn more here.
Jesus and Fasting: A Model for the Church
Jesus fasted for forty days in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Luke 4:1–2). This time of fasting was not just physical deprivation, but spiritual preparation. He also taught His disciples about fasting, emphasizing sincerity and discretion (Matthew 6:16–18). "When you fast," He said—not if you fast. Jesus assumes fasting will be a part of Christian discipleship.
Fasting, then, is not legalistic but relational. It’s a means of grace by which we draw near to God.
Is Fasting for Christians Today?
Fasting remains relevant today. While it is not commanded in the New Testament as a universal requirement, it is assumed to be a part of the Christian life. The early church fasted before appointing leaders (Acts 13), and many Christian traditions still observe fasts during Lent and other seasons.
In our modern culture of abundance and consumption, fasting may be more necessary than ever. It reminds us that “man does not live by bread alone” (Deuteronomy 8:3; quoted by Jesus in Matthew 4:4). Fasting disrupts routine. It challenges our attachments. It re-centers our desires on God.
FAQs About Biblical Fasting
What is the purpose of fasting in the Bible?
To humble oneself before God, express repentance, seek direction, and deepen spiritual dependence.
How long should a biblical fast be?
Fasts in Scripture vary from a portion of a day to 40 days. The length should be guided by the purpose and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Can I fast from things besides food?
While biblical fasting primarily involves food, modern believers may choose to fast from technology, media, or other distractions as a way to pursue God more fully.
What is the Daniel Fast?
A partial fast based on Daniel 1:12 and 10:2–3, where Daniel abstained from meat, wine, and rich foods while seeking God in prayer and humility.
Conclusion: Fasting as a Forgotten Feast
Fasting in the Bible is not about impressing God or others. It is not a spiritual performance, but a spiritual posture. It is a declaration that God is enough.
In fasting, we step away from the noise of the world to attend to the voice of God. We become more aware of our need, more honest about our sin, and more attuned to the Spirit’s leading. In this way, fasting is not deprivation but invitation—a fast that becomes a feast in the presence of God.
As Richard Foster reminds us, "Fasting must forever center on God."
