Buddhist fasting
July 11, Friday
Purpose and Significance
Fasting in Thai Buddhism is not about complete abstention from food but rather a spiritual discipline aimed at purifying the mind and body. It is seen as a way to cultivate mindfulness, self-restraint, and merit. Lay Buddhists may choose to observe fasting on Uposatha days—Buddhist holy days that occur four times a lunar month—by following the Eight Precepts instead of the usual Five Precepts.
Fasting Practices
On fasting days, practitioners typically:
- Refrain from eating after noon until the following sunrise.
- Avoid entertainment and beautification.
- Sleep on a simple surface.
- Dedicate time to meditation, chanting, and visiting temples.
Monks, while not fasting in the conventional sense, follow strict dietary rules, including not eating solid food after midday. Their meals are usually taken in the morning, often provided by laypeople as alms.
Community Involvement
During Vassa and on Uposatha days, Thai communities often organize merit-making activities. These include offering food and necessities to monks, listening to Dhamma talks, and participating in candlelight processions. Many people also take temporary ordination as monks or nuns during this period to deepen their spiritual practice.
Modern Observance
In contemporary Thailand, while not all Buddhists fast regularly, many still observe these practices during key religious festivals such as Asalha Puja and the beginning of Vassa. The fasting tradition remains a respected expression of devotion and a means to cultivate inner peace and discipline.