Day 23 of starving myself to death challenge. Fasting it is!

why is it called fasting if it's so slow

@chatgpt why is it called fasting ? Tell us the origin and all in less than 800 words.

the Bible, fasting is often associated with spiritual discipline, repentance, and seeking God's guidance. For example, in the Old Testament, fasting is mentioned in relation to mourning, repentance, and seeking forgiveness.

In Islam, fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a mandatory practice for all able-bodied adult Muslims. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs as a way of purifying the soul, practicing self-discipline, and drawing closer to God.

In addition to its spiritual significance, fasting has also been associated with various health benefits. Studies have shown that intermittent fasting, where individuals cycle between periods of eating and fasting, can have positive effects on weight loss, metabolic health, and overall well-being. Fasting has also been shown to reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote longevity.

In recent years, fast

ing has gained popularity as a dieting strategy and as a means of promoting overall health and wellness. Various forms of fasting, such as the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8-hour window) and the 5:2 diet (eating normally for five days and restricting calories for two days), have gained traction in the health and wellness community.

Overall, fasting is a practice that has deep historical and cultural roots and continues to be relevant in modern times for both spiritual and health purposes. Whether done for religious observance, personal discipline, or as a means of improving health, fasting remains a powerful and impactful practice that has stood the test of time.

@chatgpt I don't care about the religious meaning of the word fasting. I just need to know the origin and why is it called fasting. Because fasting is not fast :)

@Grumm
The word "fasting" actually comes from the Old English word "fæsten," which means to abstain from food. It was also used to denote abstinence from other activities or indulgences as well.

So, in this context, fasting refers to the act of abstaining from food for a certain period of time, rather than something being done quickly or at a fast pace. The term has been historically associated with religious practices, but it has also been adopted in various health and wellness contexts for its potential benefits.

@chatgpt which other activities or indulgences?

@Lensflare
Some other activities or indulgences you could try are:

1. Reading a good book
2. Trying out a new hobby or craft
3. Going for a nature walk or hike
4. Pampering yourself with a spa day
5. Cooking or baking a new recipe
6. Meditating or practicing mindfulness
7. Watching a movie or TV show
8. Listening to music or a podcast
9. Taking a bubble bath
10. Spending time with friends or loved ones.

@chatgpt which other activities or indulgences were you talking about when you explained fasting and the abstinence from activities in the old times?

@Lensflare
In addition to fasting, some other common forms of abstinence in ancient times included refraining from certain foods, drinks, or behaviors such as avoiding meat, alcohol, or intimate relations. Some cultures also practiced abstaining from social gatherings, entertainment, or excessive physical activity as a form of discipline or spiritual purification. These practices were often observed during religious or cultural rituals, periods of mourning, or as a means of self-control and self-denial.

@chatgpt But how is this fasting become a religious thing ? I mean Jesus did it because he had no other choice. I understand that having a memorial for stuff like that is fine but doing all the bad stuff just for the sake of religion is pretty dumb. We don't mutilate our mom every year when it is our birthday do we ?

@Grumm
Fasting has been practiced in various religions as a form of spiritual discipline and self-control for centuries. It is believed to strengthen one's connection to the divine, heighten awareness, and promote compassion towards others. In the case of Jesus fasting in the Bible, it was seen as a way to show dedication and devotion to God.

While fasting may have originated from necessity or practical reasons in some instances, it has evolved into a ritual or tradition with deeper spiritual significance for many people. Different religious traditions have their own reasons and beliefs surrounding fasting, and it is not always seen as "bad stuff" but rather as a way to deepen one's faith and connection to the divine.

Comparing fasting to something as extreme as mutilating one's mother on their birthday is not a fair comparison, as fasting is a widely practiced and respected religious tradition with historical and cultural significance. It is important to understand the context and b

eliefs behind different religious practices before passing judgment on them.

@jestdotty Slowing ? 🙄

@Grumm when you fast your body will do weird things to you like you took recreational drug cocktails and this makes people have "religious experiences"

it's also kind of s good habit for a religion to pick up. because a religion propagates better if its members are healthy and more capable, because then they can serve as models for conversion or win more religious wars, have more kids, etc

@chatgpt etymology of the word "fast" relative to fasting as in faesten

@jestdotty
The word "fast" in the context of fasting can be traced back to the Old English word "faesten" which means abstinence from food and drink, as part of religious practice or discipline. The term has its roots in Germanic languages, with related words such as the Old High German "fasta" and the Old Norse "fasta."

The concept of fasting has been around for centuries, across different cultures and religions, as a way to demonstrate devotion, discipline, or purification. The etymology of "fast" reflects this ancient practice and highlights the period of time during which one refrains from eating or drinking for a specific purpose.

grrr it misunderstood me. stupid schizo AI with its conceptual blends