Types of Christian Fasts in the Bible (Plus 6 Fasting Terms to Know)
Have you wondered what the different types of Christian fasts are and how the Bible defines fasting?
Maybe you've heard about the Daniel Fast, Esther Fast, a consecration fast, or a corporate fast but aren’t sure exactly what they mean, or what the Bible says about fasting. Plus, there’s lots of advice about intermittent fasting for health but there is more to a spiritual fast than just physical well-being.
This blog post will look at four primary types of fasts that Christians commonly practice and see what they mean for us today. We'll also examine the biblical definition of fasting and six other terms related to the spiritual discipline of fasting in the Bible. Let’s dive in!
Check out our 21-Day Prayer Journal and other Resources for Prayer and Fasting.
What is Christian Fasting?
Christian fasting is abstinence from food or drink for a specific period of time while focusing on prayer and fellowship with God. Spiritual preparation and guidance from the Holy Spirit are key for biblical fasting. Although we can get caught up in “rules” about food and eating, a spiritual fast is first about God and our relationship with Him.
Examples of fasting in the Bible show different types of fasting, including when Moses fasted for forty days (Exodus 34:28) and when Jesus fasted for forty days (Luke 4:2). Here are a few other scriptures on biblical fasting:
2 Samuel 1:12 - They mourned and wept and fasted till evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the army of the Lord and for the nation of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.
Nehemiah 9:1 - On the twenty-fourth day of the same month, the Israelites gathered together, fasting and wearing sackcloth and putting dust on their heads.
Jonah 3:5 - Then the people of Nineveh believed in God; and they called a fast and put on sackcloth from the greatest to the least of them.
Acts 14:23 - Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.
A basic Bible fasting protocol is giving up food and drinking only water. However, you’ll find other examples, like in the book of Daniel, where people abstained from specific types of foods, like sweets or meat. This is known as partial fasting, which we’ll discuss more below. Many Christians fast during Lent and other times throughout the year.
Another fasting method is restricting meals to specific times only, similar to intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating. You may have seen this fasting in other religious practices. For example, in the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.
When it comes to Christian fasting, are any of these fasts right or wrong, better or worse? Before we explore the types of fasts in the Bible, let's talk about how the Bible defines fasting.
Christian Fasts in the Bible
Before discussing specific types of fasting in the Bible, let's explore how the Bible defines the words fast and fasting. This will give us a solid biblical foundation before diving into several different types of Christian fasts and how we practice them.
The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Koine Greek. Most scholars agree the New Testament was written in Greek, although these texts may have been translated from Hebrew and Aramaic originals. When you pull out your Bible dictionary or consult your favorite Bible study tool, here are the major definitions for fasting in the Old and New Testaments.
Biblical Fasting Defined
ṣûm, tsûwm, tsoom (Strong's H6684)
Meaning to cover over (the mouth); to abstain from food; the primary idea lies in the mouth being shut.
Some examples of fasting scriptures in the Old Testament:
"Then all the sons of Israel and all the people went up and came to Bethel, and they wept and remained there before the LORD, and fasted (H6684) that day until evening. And they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD." -Judges 20:26
So we fasted (H6684) and sought our God concerning this matter, and He]listened to our pleading. -Ezra 8:23
"Go, gather all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast (H6684) for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants also will fast H6684 in the same way. And then I will go in to the king, which is not in accordance with the law; and if I perish, I perish." -Esther 4:16
nēsteuō (Strong's G3522)
Which is defined as: "to abstain as a religious exercise from food and drink: either entirely, if the fast lasted but a single day, or from customary and choice nourishment, if it continued several days."
Examples of fasting scriptures in the New Testament include:
"And after He had fasted (G3522) for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry." -Matthew 4:2
"But as for you, when you fast (G3522), anoint your head and wash your face" -Matthew 6:17
"Then, when they had fasted (G3522), prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away." -Acts 13:3
This is an interesting definition. Some claim a fast must be a long extended period without food to "count," but this definition implies that fasting may last for a single day or many days. Also, a fast may involve abstaining entirely from all food and drink or altering the customary diet.
Another term to know is “abstain.” To abstain is defined as: restraining oneself from doing or enjoying something.
Many times when we say we're "fasting from ___," we could also say we're "abstaining from___."
nāzar (Strong's H5144)
This means to separate, dedicate, and consecrate; to dedicate or devote oneself; to keep sacredly separate. This term is used for living as a Nazirite or taking a Nazirite vow. It also includes abstaining from food, drink, and impurity.
"And so you shall keep (H5144) the sons of Israel separated (H5144) from their uncleanness, so that they will not die in their uncleanness by their defiling My tabernacle that is among them." - Leviticus 15:31
"Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, 'When a man or woman makes a special vow, namely, the vow of a Nazirite, to live as a Nazirite (H5144) for the LORD, he shall abstain (H5144) from wine and strong drink; he shall consume no vinegar, whether made from wine or strong drink, nor shall he drink any grape juice nor eat fresh or dried grapes." -Numbers 6:1-2
speaking to the priests who belong to the house of the LORD of armies, and to the prophets, saying, "Shall I weep in the fifth month and fast (H5144), as I have done these many years?"
The Heart of a Biblical Fast
Abstaining from comforts and biblical fasting are about more than deprivation. When we fast, we are setting ourselves apart for a purpose. It’s not just about outward behavior but also seeking the Lord with our heart, soul, and mind.
Another crucial passage of scripture to read before you fast (I like to read this every time I fast) is Isaiah 58. The Lord answers some questions about our days of fasting and what makes them effective. God clarifies that fasting is about more than food and drink. It’s not a practice of going through the motions.
4 Basic Types Christian Fasts
Now let's talk about the types of Christian fasts many churches most commonly refer to and practice.
We must remember that our eating habits and the plethora of available food options are very different from biblical times. You can't ask if Daniel included peanut butter on his eating plan because he didn’t even have access to peanuts!
The Bible doesn't spell out a prescription for every aspect of living and worshiping the Lord. For example, we don’t see a requirement for how long and how often we’re supposed to pray. Fasting is similar.
Rather than giving a legal command and requirement of exactly how to fast, the Bible shows us a wide variety of examples of the practice of fasting.
With this in mind...enter into prayer and fasting with a humble heart. Study what the Bible says about fasting and let the Holy Spirit lead you. Consider how fasting can cultivate discipline, crucify your flesh, and teach you to live not by bread alone but by the word of God. (Matthew 4:4)
Through it all, remain in God’s grace. Maintain your focus on the purpose and prize of fasting: your relationship with the Lord. Biblical fasts are an opportunity to praise God, enhance our prayer life, and draw closer to Him.
1. Complete Fast
The complete fast is a Christian water-only fast, abstaining from all food. This is a challenging undertaking but very rewarding both physically and spiritually. And there is definitely a biblical basis for this type of fast.
When the Bible mentions someone fasting, in most cases, we assume it's a water-only fast. For example, see the stories of Jehoshaphat, Ezra, and Nehemiah.
Usually, the first few days of a water-only fast are the most difficult. But after working through the initial side effects and discomfort, most people report feeling clear, focused, and receive a boost of energy.
When fasting all food, it is crucial to drink plenty of water, get lots of rest, and spend time in prayer.
If you're brand new to fasting, you may want to start with a liquid or partial fast (two types we'll talk about next) before diving into a complete fast.
Another option is to start with a one-day fast and gradually increase the fasting period in subsequent fasts. The Bible doesn't always say how long people fasted, but in some cases, like Judges 20:26 or 1 Samuel 7:6, the fasting period lasts just one day or until the evening.
2. Liquid Fast
Another option is a liquid fast, where you abstain from all food but allow liquids such as smoothies, fresh juices, and pureed soups. And, of course, drink lots of water throughout the day!
For many people, a liquid fast is an ideal way to cleanse the body and mind and reset their eating habits. It's an easier place to start than a complete fast for most. Remember that you don’t want to consume sugary beverages, which can cause your blood sugar to spike and crash.
The goal isn't to drink constantly throughout the day but to give your body energy through healthy liquid options at regular intervals.
Juice fasts are also included in this category. Although we have many readymade options, making your own fresh juices at home is ideal.
You may ask, "So...can I drink whatever I want?"
Only you can decide if your fast should include a Venti Starbucks frappuccino. But do consider the following:
What are the most nourishing drinks for my body? (Soft drinks, energy drinks, coffee drinks, etc., do not qualify!)
Am I fasting to grow closer to God and give up temporary satisfaction, or am I still dependent on worldly substances to pacify my stress, energize me, and get me through my day?
Keep in mind that the Bible doesn't mention juice cleanses or smoothie fasts. Blenders weren't invented, and protein powder wasn't readily available. However, liquid-only fasts are a popular option for spiritual fasting. Again, the spirit of fasting is separating from the world (and food) and drawing closer to God.
3. Partial Fast
A partial fast involves restricting when you eat or what you eat. In the first case, you restrict the times of day you eat. The more common interpretation of a Christian partial fasting, however, is choosing what types of food to eat or abstain from.
The Daniel Fast, for example, is a popular Christian fast. Based on Daniel's experience in the Bible, it involves abstaining from meats, sweets, and bread while still consuming whole, plant-based foods and water.
Daniel was taken captive to Babylon and placed in the king’s court. However, not wanting to be defiled by the king’s food, he made a special request to the captain of the guard. “Please put your servants to the test for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink.” (Daniel 1:12)
Later, Daniel entered a 21-day period of fasting: “In those days, I, Daniel, had been mourning for three entire weeks. I did not eat any tasty food, nor did meat or wine enter my mouth, nor did I use any ointment at all until the entire three weeks were completed.” (Daniel 10:2-3)
Choosing to abstain from certain foods during the season of Lent is another example of partial fasting.
When you're brand new to fasting, partial fasts can be an excellent first step but don't confuse it with a diet or healthy eating plan. Fasting should involve a level of sacrifice that challenges your flesh. And, as always, the focus is not solely on what you eat (or losing weight) but primarily on drawing closer to the Lord and strengthening your spirit.
4. Supernatural or Absolute Fast
In an absolute fast, no food or water is consumed. This type of fast is rare and usually only lasts for a short period of time. Most would recommend, and I would agree, that the vast majority should NOT abstain from water while fasting.
Going without water can be deadly. Although the average person can survive three days without water, many conditions and factors can shorten that window. Even mild dehydration, which can occur after simply being out in the heat, can cause many medical problems.
There are only a few examples of absolute fasts in the Bible. One would be in Jonah chapter three when the king proclaimed that no one should eat or drink as they turned from their ways and called out to God.
In the book of Acts, Paul was blinded and didn't eat or drink for three days after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus.
The Bible records an example of an absolute fast when Moses went up on Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments from God for 40 days. He was there with the Lord for forty days and forty nights and didn't eat or drink water. (Exodus 34:28) This was a very intense and unique time. Moses was specifically called and remained in the very presence of God during this time.
6 Other Christian Fasting Terms to Know
Now that we've covered the common categories of fasts, let's talk about some other terms related to biblical fasting.
Corporate Fast
A corporate fast is done together as a church or group. They usually have a specific purpose or goal and last for a set period of time.
Although Jesus talked about fasting in private in Matthew chapter six, this was about not publicly displaying your fasting to draw attention and praise from people.
The Bible gives many examples of people fasting in groups for a common purpose. Just one example is Acts chapter 13, where we see the church at Antioch come together and fast before sending off Barnabas and Saul on their missionary journey.
Fasting with other believers is powerful and provides much-needed support.
Daniel Fast
As we already mentioned, this is a partial fast where you abstain from eating meats, sweets, and alcohol but can still consume fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
It is based on the book of Daniel and specifically chapter one, where he asks to be tested by eating only vegetables for ten days. The book of Daniel records two other instances where Daniel fasted.
One of those is: "At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. -Daniel 10:2-3
You can find more information about the Daniel Fast on this site and in the Daniel Fast Journey book.
Esther Fast
Esther called for a three-day fast when she was going to approach the king without being summoned.
"Esther fast" and "Daniel fast" are not terms found in the Bible. However, it’s common practice in modern times to follow the examples of these individuals.
The details about Esther's fast are straightforward: "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish." -Esther 4:16
As we discussed above under "Supernatural or Absolute Fast," going without water can be dangerous. You should get approval and supervision from your physician before ever attempting to do so. In general, you should always drink water while fasting.
On another note, people often identify with the spirit of this particular fast when they are confronted with a major decision or challenging conversation, as Esther did. After seeking the Lord, Esther received special blessings, favor, and strategy as she approached the king.
Three days of fasting can provide a great breakthrough when you have a big decision, confrontation, or feel oppressed by spiritual forces.
Consecration Fast
Consecration fasts are usually done at the beginning of a new season in life or ministry. They are also called "dedication fasts."
The idea is to consecrate, or set apart, yourself and your plans to God. You do this by abstaining from food (and sometimes other luxuries) as you pray and seek His direction for the new season.
A consecration fast can last anywhere from one day to 40 days, like Jesus' fast before He entered into full-time ministry. It can also be done privately or corporately.
Fasting During Lent
Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter that begins on Ash Wednesday.
Traditionally, Lent was a time of repentance and preparation for baptism. People began fasting from meat on certain days, and over time, the practice developed into abstaining from other types of food as well.
Now, many Christians observe Lent by giving up a favorite activity or food as a way to focus on Jesus during this time leading up to the celebration of His resurrection. Acts of service and
Read more about Fasting During Lent.
Social Media or Soul Fast
We are constantly bombarded with advertising, notifications, and news stories in the modern world. It's easy to get caught up in the noise and become overwhelmed. Media, particularly news and social media, can overstimulate your mind and emotions.
To remedy this, some people choose to take what they call a "soul fast." This involves abstaining from all media for a set period to clear your mind and focus on your spiritual health. Other people commit to abstain from social media in particular.
Although it's not equivalent to fasting food, it's still a great idea, especially alongside one of the other types of fasts previously mentioned.
For one thing, the average person spends 2.5 hours daily on social media channels. You can rededicate that time to prayer, reading your Bible, and other pursuits that benefit your soul.
Without constant input from the outside world, you can slow down and focus on your thoughts and feelings. You may also find that you have more energy, focus, and clarity.
So again, it's highly recommended that you abstain from social, TV, entertainment, and other forms of media to clear your soul and better focus when you fast – but biblical fasting means giving up food.
If you can't do a complete fast for medical reasons, you can still consider giving up sweets, meat, or other non-essential food items for a time.
Summing Up Types of Christian Fasts
Christian fasting can take various approaches. Some fasts are more stringent, involving complete abstinence from food and drink for a certain period of time. Other fasts may be more flexible, allowing for certain types of food and drink to be consumed in moderation.
No matter what type of fast you choose, remember that spiritual practice doesn't require perfect performance.
God is most concerned with your motives and heart (He makes this clear in Isaiah 58). If you approach fasting with a sincere desire to grow closer to God, He will bless your efforts.
Don't worry if you don't get everything perfect on your first try. Like any other spiritual discipline, fasting takes practice, and you will learn and grow as you go.
Just start where you are and do what you can. Pray, read God's Word, and ask Him to help you and support you. He will surely honor your efforts. God bless you!