How is fasting performed in Judaism and Christianity? What is the difference between the fasting performed by the Prophet (pbuh) and the one performed by the people of the Book?

How is fasting performed in Judaism and Christianity? What is the difference between the fasting performed by the Prophet (pbuh) and the one performed by the people of the Book?

Dear Brother / Sister,

In Christianity, fasting is not a kind of worshipping that is arranged to be performed in a certain month of the year. Although there are periods of fasting shown in the worshipping calendars of churches as reminders, Christians can fast whenever they wish. 

In Christianity, alcohol and sexual relationship are forbidden during fasting. Daily activities are reduced to a minimum. Fasting is generally performed for forgiveness and in order to realize living in abundance. Especially Catholics and Orthodox Christians observe fasting for forty days called "Great Lent" and in Advent before Christmas. Protestant Churches leave it to their followers whether to fast or not.

In Judaism, fasting is necessary. Fasting is observed a few times in a year. Fasting is observed especially in Yom Kippur. They do not eat, drink wear leather clothes; they do not put on any oil and cream. They do not have sexual intercourse. 

In general, fasting is a means of keeping away from daily chores. The Jews living in various regions of Arabia did not use to eat anything after night when they fasted. Imsak (prohibition of eating, drinking, etc) starts when the sun sets in the evening. It is forbidden to eat that night until the first two stars appear the next day. This period was about twenty-five hours.

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