Yom Kippur is the only day which mentions fasting in the Bible. It is believed that abstaining from the pleasure of food helps us focus on repentance. The fasting is hence done, so that the disciple repents the mistakes he has done and obliges to cleanse his sins. It is also known as the Day of Atonement. Yom Kippur is the holiest day for the Jewish religion. This day is meant for atonement and repentance. The fast on this day generally lasts for 25 hours. It begins the evening before Yom Kippur and ends at nightfall on the day.
Why We Do Fasting?
True repentance is obtained when we get spiritual elevation. There is a methodical way of obtaining spiritual elevation. The wide belief is, to attain spiritual uplift, we have to restrain ourselves from all the physical luxuries. Mainly six physical activities are forbidden on Yom kippur. These are:
- eating and drinking
- marital relations
- washing
- wearing leather shoes
- applying lotion
- no dealing with money
These prohibitions are strictly followed while observing fasting.
How Do We Do Fasting?
As mentioned, the Yom Kippur fast lasts for 25 hours. It starts the day before evening and the fast is broken on the nightfall of Yom Kippur. While in a fast, pain is very obvious. Proper measures are to be taken so as not to experience pain or dehydration while fasting. There are several ways to prepare oneself, so as to sustain through the fasting period without any difficulty.
- Caffeine is to be controlled days before the fasting day. As caffeine is addictive, it may cause some inconvenience during the fast.
- Have small amount of food intake and drink lots of water. Consumption of lots of water helps you avoid dehydration.
- Plan your last meal long before the fast begins so you don’t have to rush through your meal.
- Avoid salty food and drink lots of water. Eat your last meal normally and once you finish your meal, brush your teeth.
