Fast
צוֹם (Tsom)
To abstain from food for spiritual purposes — prayer, repentance, or seeking God.
The Hebrew word tsom means to fast or abstain from food, a spiritual discipline practiced throughout Scripture for prayer, repentance, mourning, and seeking God's intervention.
"Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?" — Isaiah 58:6 (KJV)
Key Verses
Isaiah 58:6
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?”Read in context
Joel 2:12
“Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning.”Read in context
Matthew 6:17-18
“But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's H6685 — Fast (צוֹם (Tsom))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where צוֹם (Tsom) appears.
Open Strong's H6685The Practice of Fasting
Tsom refers to voluntary abstinence from food for spiritual purposes. In the Old Testament, fasting accompanied prayer, repentance, mourning, and urgent petitions to God. It was practiced by Moses, David, Elijah, Esther, Daniel, and many others during pivotal moments. Fasting was not about earning God's favor but about humbling the soul and sharpening spiritual focus.
God's Chosen Fast
In Isaiah 58, God redefines fasting beyond mere food abstinence. The fast He chooses involves justice — loosing the bonds of wickedness, feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless. True fasting is not a ritual performance but a posture of the heart that overflows into compassionate action toward others.
Jesus and Fasting
Jesus fasted forty days in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry. He taught His disciples to fast privately, not for public admiration. He assumed His followers would fast ('when ye fast,' not 'if'), indicating it remains a vital spiritual discipline for those who follow Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fasting in the Bible?
Biblical fasting (tsom) is voluntary abstinence from food for spiritual purposes such as prayer, repentance, mourning, or seeking God's guidance and intervention.
Did Jesus teach about fasting?
Yes. Jesus fasted forty days Himself and taught His disciples to fast in private, not for public recognition. He assumed fasting would be a regular practice for His followers.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Fast"?
Isaiah 58:6 — "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?" (KJV). It also appears in Joel 2:12, Matthew 6:17-18.
Why does the Hebrew word behind "Fast" matter?
Tsom refers to voluntary abstinence from food for spiritual purposes. English uses one word, "Fast", where the Hebrew צוֹם (Tsom) carries the fuller sense: to abstain from food for spiritual purposes — prayer, repentance, or seeking god.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Fast (צוֹם (Tsom))
To abstain from food for spiritual purposes — prayer, repentance, or seeking God.
Strong's H6685 — Fast
צוֹם (Tsom) • To abstain from food for spiritual purposes — prayer, repentance, or seeking God.
Biblical Meaning of an Earthquake in a Dream (KJV)
God shaking what can be shaken; call to stand on the Rock.
Biblical Meaning of the Number 40 in a Dream (KJV)
Testing, preparation, and a completed trial.
Fasting Bible Quiz
When ye fast — the biblical practice of humbling the soul before God.
Bible Verses About Fasting
10 curated KJV verses
Where to go next
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