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The concept of Fast in Christianity

In Christianity, the concept of Fast encompasses various meanings and practices. It primarily refers to the Day of Atonement, a time for communal fasting and repentance for collective sins. Additionally, fasting includes voluntary abstention from food for spiritual purposes or to appear righteous, as criticized in scripture. The practice is also observed in Judaism to mourn the destruction of the Temple. Early Christianity emphasizes fasting as an act of humility and penitence, essential for preparing for spiritual ceremonies like baptism.1
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Synonyms: Quick, Rapid, Hasty, Prompt, Fleet

In Dutch: Snel; In Finnish: Nopeasti; In Spanish: ¸éá±è¾±»å´Ç; In German: Schnell; In Malay: Cepat; In Swedish: Snabb; In French: Rapide

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Fast'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) Fasts are practices that the Psychics hate, and they are described as a spiritual discipline that opposes the care of the flesh, imposing reins upon the appetite.[1] (2) The text explores the concept of fasting, questioning its purpose, and defining the true fast that the Lord has chosen, which involves specific actions.[2] (3) Fasts are times during which prayer should be made with kneeling, alongside other customary signs of humility, as it signifies not only praying but also asking for forgiveness and making amends to God.[3] (4) This is an action of abstaining from food, which is recommended for both the person performing the baptism and the individual being baptized before the ceremony.[4] (5) Fast is a practice or action, in which people are abstaining from food and/or drink for a period of time, as suggested by Peter.[5]

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) The act of abstaining from food or other pleasures, which is mentioned in the text as a practice that can lead to sin.[6]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) Fast is used in the context of the day of atonement, signifying a period of repentance and spiritual reflection within religious practices.[7] (2) The Day of Atonement, designated as a time of fasting and remembrance of collective sins of the nation.[8] (3) A common term for the yearly day of atonement, specifically referring to a time of fasting.[9]

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) To abstain from food, as the hypocrites did, in order to be seen by others, and to receive a reward, according to the text.[10] (2) A ritual proclaimed by Jezebel in her letters to create a façade of legality for Naboth's wrongful accusation.[11]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) A crucial element of the Day of Atonement observance; a period of abstaining from food to express penitence and humility before God.[12]

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) This is a practice observed by Jews on the ninth day of the month of Ab, commemorating the destruction of the first Temple, highlighting a period of mourning.[13]

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: The Little Flowers of St. Francis

(1) The fast is a period of abstinence and spiritual devotion undertaken by St. Francis, and during this time, he received various consolations.[14]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Plural form: Fasts.