The Daniel Fast

I ate no rich food, no meat or wine entered my mouth, and I did not anoint myself with oil until the three weeks were completed.

When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. …

But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

In those days I, Daniel, was mourning for three full weeks.

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.”

So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”

My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, …

Rejoice at all times. …

“Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day, and I and my maidens will fast as you do. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish!”

…and then was a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.

Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting. No entertainment was brought before him, and sleep fled from him.