Fasting is a
symbol. Fasting signifies abstinence from lust. Physical fasting is a symbol of
that abstinence, and is a reminder; that is, just as a person abstains from
physical appetites, he is to abstain from self-appetites and self-desires. But
mere abstention from food has no effect on the spirit. It is only a symbol, a
reminder. Otherwise it is of no importance. Fasting for this purpose does not
mean entire abstinence from food. The golden rule as to food is, do not take
too much or too little. Moderation is necessary. - 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, quoted by Miss E. S.
Stevens in Fortnightly Review, June 1911; included in ‘Baha'u'llah and the New
Era', by Dr. J.E. Esslemont; Star of the West, vol. 3, no. 6, June 24, 1917)
