Fasting Vs Religion

In various of religions have different point-of-views on how we eat, worship, also, how we view on the topic of life and death, however; what most religions had common is fasting. According to dictionary.com, fasting is the willing abstinence or reduction from some or all food, drink, or both, for a period of time. Each religious institution has different definition of fasting and how they fasting. For instance, some of them may prohibit their followers to eat certain kind of meat, while others may permit their followers to eat certain kind of meat. Sometime, religions have a similar way to do fasting. Usually, fasting for special purposes or before or during special sacred times; fasting is one of top characteristics of the major religions

For example, the fasting practice of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) is widely different from Muslims. Mormons fasting once Sunday of every month and they is called “Fast Sunday,” the church members are provided the opportunity to feast together, sometimes for a unified purpose; other times it’s simply an opportunity to undertake a personal fast. Mormon families, including children ages eight and older, are encouraged to go without food and water for two consecutive meals in a 24-hour period and are encouraged to donate the money they would have spent on those meals to the poor and needy with what’s called a “Fast Offering.” Reason of this is Mormons believe it will help them prepare themselves and others to receive God’s blessing; therefore, can be spiritual strength and feel closer to the heavenly Father. This fasting is a practice that many Mormons participate in, both individually and collectively. While Muslim, it is called “Sawm of Five Pillars of Islam,” which means fasting in Islam. Sawm begins at dawn and ends at sunset during the month of Ramadan; they are not allowed to eat from all food and drink including water during day, and Islamic fasting also require the followers to refrain from smoking and sexual intercourse during the period as well. The purpose of this is to redirect themselves from activities and to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful