The element of abstinence in fasting
The lecture revolves around the idea that fasting is not merely an external abstinence from food, but a deep spiritual training on “denial” both internally and externally, so that a person rises above desires and controls oneself completely.
🌿 The Spiritual Dimension of Fasting
True fasting begins from within, where the heart abstains from desire before the body abstains from food. What is required is purity of heart and its elevation above material desires, so that a person becomes in a higher spiritual state.
🔒 The Concept of Complete Denial
Denial is not limited to food, but includes all the senses: the eye, the ear, the tongue, and the mind. Fasting of the eye from wrong sight, fasting of the ear from harmful hearing, and fasting of the tongue from vain speech are all essential elements in accepted fasting.
🧠 Fasting of Mind and Heart
The teaching emphasizes the necessity of controlling the mind and preventing evil thoughts, because thought is the beginning of every sin. Also, the heart must fast from wrong feelings such as envy, anger, and hatred.
⚖️ Self-Control and Freedom
Fasting is a training in self-control and setting limits. True freedom exists within God’s commandments, not as absolute freedom without boundaries.
🔄 Self-Examination
A person should examine oneself during fasting: what did one gain? and what changed in one’s life? Fasting is an opportunity for spiritual growth, not merely a formal practice.
⚠️ The Danger of Superficial Fasting
Fasting that lacks inner change is rejected, because it becomes merely bodily abstinence without spiritual benefit. Therefore, fasting must be accompanied by repentance and purity.
🕊 The Spiritual Goal
The ultimate goal is that a person masters oneself, because “he who rules his spirit is better than one who takes a city,” and lives a holy life elevated above sin.
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