The Spiritual Discipline of Fasting: A Comparative Exploration in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

ABSTRACT Fasting is considered an important worship ritual in Abrahamic religions which teaches moral discipline, sacrifice, repentance and devotion to God. This study highlights the objectives as well as historical, ritualistic and theological aspects of fasting. It also explores the similarities and differences among these traditions in order to observe this practice. Torah and rabbinic tradition provide the foundations of fasting in Judaism. These teachings highlight repentance and communal mourning by significant fasts like Yom Kippur. Christianity connects fasting to solidarity with Christ’s AS suffering and spiritual preparation, mostly prominently observed during Lent. In Islam, fasting primarily observed in the month of Ramadan along with voluntary fasting which can be observed throughout the year excluding Eid days. The objective of fasting in Islam is to develop spiritual purity, community solidarity, physical discipline and charity. This is a qualitative research which is based on secondary sources; books, articles and online sources. A comparative analysis highlights the shared themes, spiritual renewal and empathy. It also highlights the comprehensiveness of Islamic fasting and its global impact. Fasting helps people to develop piousness, empathy with poor and sacrifice of wishes for the sake of God in Abrahamic faiths.