al-Siam al-Tibbi (Medical Fasting) and al-Siam al-Diyniu (Religious Fasting): Role in Medical and Religious Practices - Abstract
The Fasting, since pre-history, has been a part of human custom across the globe for health, ritualistic, mental and spiritual rejuvenation. Many of the notable physicians of ancient times recommended it as an integral component of curative and preventive strategies. Recent work on the usefulness of fasting has revealed that it is, undoubtedly, the most effective biological method of treatment. In addition to its significant role in the management of certain chronic diseases, it can arguably be suggested as a complementary therapy to immunization, to boost up immunity.
Intermittent fasting (IF), the history of which is traced to Gautama Buddha, is an umbrella term for various eating patterns or cycles that switches between fasting and eating on a regular schedule. In addition to its use in clinical practice, IF is also used in certain religious practices with significant beneficial effects on health, notably a month-long period of Ramadan: fasting from “dawn to dusk”. The resultant “metabolic switching “ protects bodily organs against chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, age-related neurodegenerative disorders, even inflammatory bowel disease and many cancers.
The fasting, an ancient ritual of worship, disciplines the body and soul and has existed in various forms in almost all the religions. The practice is mentioned in the Bible, the Qur’an, the Mahabharata, and the Upanishads. It is much more than usually thought abstinence from food and drinks. The fasting, created by divine wisdom, is an effective tool in setting boundaries for self-restraint. It aims at compliance with the divine command while keeping away from His prohibitions, developing self-discipline, forbearance, and righteousness. It should not be practiced just “going hungry” or a “dieting program”. It needs to be accompanied by repentance, supplicant prayers and developing sense of empathy for those under-privileged.