Fasting

Scot McKnight's book Fasting is one of the eight books in The Ancient Practices Series edited by Phyllis Tickle. This book discusses the discipline of fasting, its history, motivations for fasting, and types of fasting. Fasting is described as a three part process, an A-B-C response": "A" is described as being a grievous moment; the believer responds to this moment with "B," fasting; "C" is the benefit that is received by going through the process of "A" and "B". McKnight is clear about the distinction between fasting and abstinence (refraining from partaking of a particular food/drink or engaging in a behavior/activity, as many do during Lent). The context in which one fasts is strongly emphasized.

“Fasting is a choice not to eat for a designated period because some moment is so sacred that partaking in food would deface or profane the seriousness of the moment.” (p 19)

“When the grievous sacred moment is neglected and instead we focus on the results, fasting becomes a manipulative device instead of a genuine, Christian spiritual discipline. Far too much of the conversation today about fasting is about what we can get and not enough about the serious and sacred moments that prompt fasting.” (p xxi)

I am ambivalent in my opinion of this book. I first picked it up during Lent thinking that it would enrich my experience of fasting during this season, especially days when fasting is obligated. It has provided me with a new insight into the practice of fasting, chiefly being aware of whether or not I am fasting with the right motives. But that’s essentially all there is to McKnight’s book because he places a significant emphasis on what not to do. He is repetitive and academic in his writing, making the reading dull when reading more than a few pages at a time. This book is probably not worth reading unless one has a particular interest in fasting. A good note: there is no overt anti-Catholic message.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”