What Does Bhagavad Gita Say About Observing Fasts?

Introduction

Observing fasts has been a common religious practice among various traditions, including Hinduism. Many people believe that fasting is a way to attain spiritual merit and divine blessings. However, Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj, based on the knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita, reveals that fasting is not a means to attain salvation. Instead, it is a man-made practice that deviates from true devotion.

Fasting in Hindu Tradition vs. Bhagavad Gita's Teachings

Hindu traditions promote fasting on specific days like Ekadashi, Navratri, and Purnima, believing that it pleases deities and grants material and spiritual benefits. However, Bhagavad Gita contradicts these notions by emphasizing true devotion and condemning practices that lack scriptural approval.

Bhagavad Gita on the Futility of Fasting

Fasting is a Tama-guna (Ignorant) Practice

• In Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 17, Verse 5-6), Krishna states that those who perform severe austerities, including fasting, do so out of hypocrisy and ignorance. These acts do not align with true devotion and are harmful to both the body and soul.

Kaal’s Trap of False Practices

• Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 16, Verse 23-24) warns that those who follow self-made practices instead of scriptural guidance do not attain salvation but instead suffer.
• Fasting is one such practice that is neither recommended by the Bhagavad Gita nor leads to liberation.

Fasting Does Not Lead to Salvation

• In Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 6, Verse 16), Krishna explains that devotion is not successful for those who eat too much or those who do not eat at all. This clearly indicates that extreme fasting is not a means to attain spiritual progress.
• True devotion requires balance in life rather than artificial penances that harm the body.

The True Path to Salvation According to the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita repeatedly emphasizes that the only way to attain salvation is through the worship of the Supreme God, as revealed by a Tatvadarshi Saint (Gita Chapter 4, Verse 34). Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj explains that fasting is an unnecessary ritual that does not contribute to one’s spiritual growth. Instead, one should engage in the true method of worship prescribed by the Supreme God.

Conclusion

Fasting is not a recommended practice in the Bhagavad Gita for attaining salvation. Instead, it is a tradition that has been imposed due to ignorance. Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj reveals that true worship of the Supreme God, based on scriptural knowledge, is the only way to liberation. Thus, seekers of truth should abandon the futile practice of fasting and follow the correct spiritual path as guided by a Tatvadarshi Saint.

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