Exploring the Relationship Between Fasting and Spiritual Growth within Modern Culture

Fasting and spiritual growth are connected by the need to reunite the body and soul, a separation prevalent in modern Western culture. This disconnection has led to three common views of the body: as a monster to conquer, a celebrity to glorify, or a cornucopia for indulgence. The 'monster' perspective sees the body as a source of desires to be controlled, leading to fasting as a means of conquering bodily desires to achieve spiritual maturity. Conversely, the 'celebrity' view treats the body as a tool for seeking identity and validation through appearance, potentially leading to unhealthy practices like extreme dieting. To truly understand the role of fasting in spiritual growth, it is essential to address and realign the distorted perceptions of the body within Western culture.