Friday, March 29, 2024
HomeOpinionLettersFasting an integral part of the Indian culture

Fasting an integral part of the Indian culture

- Advertisement -

This has reference to an informative article “Fasting: An excellent tool for spiritual growth dated March 21. I fully endorse the author’s statement that “Fasting is an act of repentence”. Keeping a fast is an integral part of the Indian culture and tradition. It basically connotes willingly abstaining oneself from eating certain or any kind of food, drink or both. It is called “Vrat” in Indian households. Our religious scriptures state fasting is not only a part of worship, but a great instrument for inculcating self-discipline too. Though people in India may keep a fast for varied reasons, the most important ones pertain to religion and spiritual aspects. Some people of certain Indian religious sects like the Jains are known to keep a fast for weeks at a stretch, though this type of religious fasting has now been banned in India.

In Christianity, Biblically, fasting is abstaining from food, drink, sleep or sex to focus on a period of spiritual growth. Specifically, we humbly deny something of the flesh to glorify God, enhance our spirit, and go deeper in our prayer life. The Bible presents fasting as something that is good, profitable, and beneficial. The purpose of a biblical fast is not to lose weight, but rather to gain deeper fellowship with God. The motivation should be centred on God and a relationship with Him, not on our body or our relationship to others.

The spiritual significance of fasting is being forgotten today as man is losing contact with his inner being. Nevertheless the science of fasting, as preserved in the Vedas and Shastras, is a method of purification which can aid man in his mundane and spiritual life. Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God and to ourselves that we are serious about our relationship with Him. At the same time, fasting without the right attitude does not touch the heart of God.


Vinod C. Dixit

(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -

Latest

Must Read

- Advertisement -

Related News