Fasting is a discipline that helps to develop self control and willpower : Muhammad Ali
Fasting is a spiritual practice that transcends religious boundaries, cultivating self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual growth. As Muslims observe Ramadan, Christians prepare for Easter through Lent, Jews atone on Yom Kippur, Hindus practice Upavasa, and Buddhists cultivate mindfulness through fasting,
In Islam, Ramadan fasting (Sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam (Qur'an 2:183-185).The word Ramadhan is derived from Arabic word ,”Ramdh, means be glowing Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food and drink, to develop self-control, empathy for those in need, and a stronger connection with Allah It is Obligatory for an adult expect one who is ill ,elderly, menstruating , breastfeeding or pregnancy fasting does not involve only Control of food but control of all things that have effect on our physical as well as mental well being.
“Ramadan is the month on which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the standard ˹to distinguish between right and wrong” surah Baqarah verse 185.The pre-dawn meal before the fast is called the Saher, and the meal at sunset that breaks the fast is called iftar.
In Christianity, Lent is a 40-day period of fasting, reflection, and prayer leading up to Easter Christians fasting or giving up certain luxuries during Lent to focus on their spiritual journey, emulate Jesus' 40-day fast in the wilderness, and prepare for the resurrection. Lent word is derived from ‘lengthen'. It is called Lent in English because it is the time of the year when days are lengthening in the northern hemisphere. Like Easter, Lent falls on different dates each year. Initially and traditionally people abstained from eating eggs, meat etc. But now they abstain from alcohol and so on. They drop the Sundays between this period according to Bible Jesus spent 40 days fasting and praying in the desert before beginning his public ministry.
In Judaism, Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) is a 25-hour fast from sunset to sunset, seeking forgiveness for past sins and reconciling with God and others (Leviticus 16:29-30).
According to Rabbinical tradition, the holiday commemorates the day Moses came down from Mount Sinai after praying for forgiveness for the Israelites, who had worshipped a golden calf.
In Hinduism, fasting (Upavasa) is a common practice, often undertaken to purify the mind, body, and soul (Bhagavad Gita 17:14-16). Fasting can take various forms, such as abstaining from certain foods, observing a complete fast, or practicing a partial fast. Hindu scriptures emphasize the importance of self-control and self-discipline, which fasting helps cultivate Devout Hindus also fast before a puja or other religious practices. Hindu students fast before worshipping the goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning. Unlike Muslim fasting, which lasts from sunrise to sunset, Upavasa is a twenty-four hour fast. And they can take water or very light food like puffed rice etc
While In Buddhism, fasting is not a central practice, but some Buddhists observe fasting as a means to cultivate mindfulness, self-awareness, and compassion (Tricycle, "The Buddhist Practice of Fasting" by Bhikkhu Bodhi). The Buddhist concept of "dana" (generosity) encourages practitioners to give up attachments, including food, to develop a greater sense of empathy and understanding.
As we observed fasting has been practiced for centuries, offering numerous benefits for both physical and spiritual well-being. By abstaining from food and drink, individuals can experience weight loss due to reduced calorie intake, as well as improved insulin sensitivity, which can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Fasting also stimulates autophagy, a natural process in which the body breaks down and recycles damaged cells and proteins, and promotes the removal of toxins and waste products. Additionally, fasting has been linked to improved mental clarity, focus, and concentration. On a spiritual level, fasting can increase self-awareness, allowing individuals to better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It can also promote spiritual growth and renewal, encouraging a deeper connection with a higher power. Fasting can cultivate detachment from worldly desires and attachments, leading to a sense of inner peace and freedom. Furthermore, it can increase compassion and empathy for others, particularly those who suffer from hunger and poverty, and foster a greater sense of gratitude for life's blessings. By incorporating fasting into one's lifestyle, individuals can experience these profound benefits, leading to improved physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Regular fasting has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and increased longevity. Whether for physical, spiritual, or emotional reasons, fasting can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.
“Fasting is a shield so the one who fasts should avoid obscene speech and ignorant behaviour” Prophet Muhammad PBUH

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