The Daniel Fast is derived from two accounts of the prophet Daniel. In a nutshell, it is a vegan diet that also excludes processed foods, added sugars and leavened breads. By giving up some of the foods we typically enjoy, we demonstrate our commitment to pursue a more intimate relationship with God, while simultaneously cleansing our bodies of harmful toxins.
The Daniel fast Background
As a young lad, Daniel was one of thousands to be taken captive when Judah was conquered by the Babylonians. Recognized as one of the best and brightest of his people, he was groomed to serve in King Nebuchadnezzar’s court. For three years he received training in the nation’s language and literature. The king also ordered that he and his fellow trainees be served food from the royal table, but Daniel refused to defile himself this way. It’s likely that the menu included something forbidden by Jewish law, such as pork or meat sacrificed to idols. Determined to stay true to his God, Daniel asked his advisor for an exemption:
“Please test your servants for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink.” Daniel 1:12 (NASB)
In earlier translations, the word “pulse” is used in place of “vegetables”. This is typically understood to include anything grown from seed.
When the ten days were up, Daniel and his friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the king’s food. And so they were allowed to continue the diet that honored their beliefs.
Later in his life, Daniel was feeling distraught over the circumstances of his people, which moved him to a period of prayer and fasting:
“In those days, I, Daniel, had been mourning for three entire weeks. I did not eat any tasty food, nor did meat or wine enter my mouth…” Daniel 10:2-3 (NASB)
Depending on which version of the Bible you read, “tasty” might be translated as “choice,” “fancy” or “rich.” The Hebrew word literally means “pleasant bread”.
A New Tradition
The two portions of scripture above provide the basis for what we call the Daniel Fast. It is a modern-day practice — not an ancient tradition like Passover or the Lord’s Supper — which leaves it open to interpretation. The guidelines below are the most commonly observed, but you will find variations depending on where you look. The objective is not to replicate Daniel’s experience, but to follow his example of faith and discipline.
For a more detailed list of foods to enjoy and those to avoid, see my food list.
Spiritual and Physical Well-Being
In the Bible, fasting is always coupled with prayer as an act of worship or sacrifice to God. In today’s culture, fasts are often implemented purely for the sake of health. Whatever your personal motivations, there are many benefits to participating in the Daniel Fast.
Here are just a few:
Spiritual Benefits
- A closer relationship to God
- Heightened sensitivity to the voice of the Holy Spirit
- Increased effectiveness in intercessory prayer
- Guidance in decisions
- Recognition of the things that control you
- A renewed sense of balance
Physical Benefits
- Weight Loss
- Detoxification
- Increased energy levels
- Freedom from sugar addiction
- Improved digestion
- Reduced inflammation