The Baháʼí Fast is a 19-day period each year during which adult Baháʼís in good health abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. It takes place from the 2nd to the 20th of March, immediately preceding the Baháʼí New Year.
Purpose and Importance:The Baháʼí Fast is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and rejuvenation. It is a time to focus on one’s inner life and to draw closer to God. Baháʼu’lláh, the founder of the Baháʼí Faith, wrote that “Fasting is the cause of the awakening of man. The heart becomes tender and the spirituality of man increases.”
Incorporating the Fast into Daily Life: Baháʼís can incorporate the Fast into their lives in several ways:- Daily reflection and prayer: Baháʼís are encouraged to use this time for daily reflection and prayer. They can read the Baháʼí scriptures, meditate, and pray for guidance and strength.
- Fasting from sunrise to sunset: Baháʼís abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset each day of the Fast.
- Acts of charity and service: Baháʼís are encouraged to use this time to perform acts of charity and service to others.
- Focus on spiritual growth: The Fast is a time to focus on spiritual growth and development. Baháʼís can use this time to reflect on their lives and to make positive changes.
Certain individuals are exempt from fasting, including those who are ill, traveling, pregnant or nursing, or children.
Prayers for the Fast:There are many prayers that Baháʼís can say during the Fast. Some of these prayers can be found in the Baháʼí prayer book.
Additional Resources: Resources – Prayer for the Fast
