What is a Daniel Fast?

Answer

The Daniel Fast is a partial fast based on two accounts of the prophet Daniel fasting. When practiced as a fast, it is meant to be a period of getting closer to God. The Daniel Fast, also known as the “Daniel Diet,” has also gained popularity as a healthy eating regimen. Typically, the fast lasts from ten to twenty-one days. Some people incorporate the food plan’s principles into their long-term diet.

The Daniel Fast is named after the way the prophet Daniel is said to have eaten in Daniel 1 and Daniel 10. When Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, Azariah, and other young Israelite men were brought into Nebuchadnezzar’s service, they were supposed to eat food and wine from the king’s table as part of a three-year training program. “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself in this way” «But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. », (Daniel 1:8). It is likely that the royal food did not adhere to kosher laws. The official feared that Daniel’s health would suffer and that the king would be displeased. Therefore, Daniel proposed a ten-day trial during which he and his three companions would eat vegetables (or “pulses”) and drink water. “At the end of the ten days, they appeared healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who had eaten the royal food. So the guard removed their special food and wine and gave them vegetables instead” (Daniel 1:15-16).

Later, during the reign of Cyrus, Daniel had a terrifying vision. He “mourned for three we

Ex. [He] ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched [his] lips; and [he] used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over” (Daniel 10:2-3). Then Daniel saw an angel who explained the vision to him and strengthened him. The fast was a time of mourning for Daniel and also part of how he “set [his] mind to gain understanding and to humble [himself] before [his] God” «Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words. », (Daniel 10:12).

Since the Daniel Fast is only styled after Daniel’s eating pattern, which is not elaborated on in the Bible, different resources have different regulations for what can and cannot be consumed while on the fast. Generally speaking, the eating plan is comparable to a vegan diet, though with more restrictions. All meat and animal products are disallowed (meat, eggs, fish, dairy), as are sweeteners (added sugar and natural sweeteners like honey or agave), solid fats, yeast, caffeine, alcohol, additives, and processed foods. The Daniel Fast includes vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and water. These guidelines are based on Daniel’s requesting “nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink” «Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. », (Daniel 1:12) and eating “no choice food; no meat or wine” «I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled. », (Daniel 10:3). The Hebrew word for “vegetables” is sometimes translated as “pulse.”

“Pulses” and is thought to refer to food that comes from a seed. “Choice food” is seen to include items like sugar and sweeteners.

Those following the Daniel Fast are not limited in the quantity of the approved foods they can consume. That being said, part of the benefit of fasting from a spiritual perspective is spending less time with food and more time focused on God. In fasting, the intention is to deny the flesh and be reminded of our need for God and to draw near to Him. Those utilizing a Daniel Fast primarily as a healthy-eating program often find unprocessed food to be more satisfying, and thus they naturally eat less.

The medical community appears to agree that the Daniel Fast is well-tolerated and can offer some health benefits for individuals. As the Daniel Fast has gained more popularity in culture, at least one study has been conducted on its physical effects, the results of which can be reviewed here. It is important for believers to care for their bodies. When discussing sexual immorality, 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 says, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Our bodies ultimately belong to God; we should steward them wisely, which includes taking care of our physical health.

From a spiritual perspective, a Daniel Fast can be a helpful way to focus on God. Changing our habits and not relying so much on the comforts of food can be a physical reminder that we depend on God. True satisfaction is found only in Him. Those desiring to use the Daniel Fast in this manner should be certain of their motives and take steps to use the fast in a way that will be spiritually beneficial. For instance, spend more time with God in prayer and in reading His Word while on the fast. Also, be sure to prepare in advance for the dietary changes. Without proper preparation, the Daniel Fast could lead to an overemphasis on food instead of being a tool for spiritual growth.

, especially in cultures where trendy diets are common and where processed or ready-made foods are popular. There are plenty of resources available online and in books to assist individuals in successfully undertaking a Daniel Fast. Seek God’s wisdom before starting, and then rely on Him to lead the way.