Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States
www.suscopts.org
   A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

In the Old Testament, Moses fasted without food or water for 40 days several times. How is this possible? If we fast for even 3 days without water or food, we'll probably faint. If this is possible, why is fasting different now in the Church? We can eat vegan. Why don't we completely sustain from food?

Though it is rare, it is possible for people to fast for such long periods of time. We have heard of contemporary cases of people who have gone on hunger strikes for such excessive periods of time for no other purpose other than to make a political statement. However, on a spiritual level, fasting for lengthy periods is usually possible when one is generally accustomed to fasting and prayer. Such individuals are in communion with God and desire nothing else but are satiated by being engulfed in Him by His presence. The Church encourages a period of abstinent fasting starting from midnight to a period of time during the day, but sets limits for each one as much as it is possible concerning one's health and stamina with the direction of one's father of confession.
Home | Ask A Question | Search Q&A