Questioner: Susan

Subject: Fasting

Question:

I am interested in the ritual of fasting within Hinduism. I have heard about Ekadasi. Is this the main way in which Hindus fast? Is it a very common custom today for an average Hindu or is it something just for the very devout? What are the main reasons for this ritual? Is it a total or partial fast? Any information you could provide to help me to understand this would be appreciated. Thank you.

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Jagannatha Prakasa's reply

Hi Susan,

Ekadasi is the "eleventh" day following the full and new moons (i.e. there are two fortnights in a lunar month, one dark and one light, this tradition dates back to the origins of the Hindu religion to the worship of Sun and Moon). Its a day to give oneself over to fasting and spiritual pursuits.

Generally speaking, during ekadasi, one fasts from grains and legumes. The day before one often fasts from water.

The details vary village by village, guru by guru etc. The main point is that one forgoes the usual life and focuses on God or spiritual enlightenment (depending on one's belief system). One chants more mantram (prayers), meditates more often/deeply, offers additional respects to the gurudev, offers more puja or worship to the murtis, etc.

Some Hindus will do a complete fast for the entire time, other will do a minimal one, however most Hindus will honor the day in some way.

There are also other fasting days. This page has a partial list of feasts and fasts: dlshq.org

Let me know if you have more questions,

Om Santi (Let there be peace)

~ Jagannatha Prakasa

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