Billions Observe Fasting Rituals During Lent and Ramadan

The spiritual and physical practice of abstaining from food or drink has deep meaning for many faiths.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Both the Christian season of Lent and the Islamic holy month of Ramadan began this past week, marking a time when billions of people around the world will practice various forms of fasting. While fasting can be a way to build self-discipline and focus, for many it is a spiritual practice of self-denial in hopes of drawing closer to the divine.

Why it matters

Fasting is a centuries-old tradition observed by numerous faiths, and the experience of abstaining from food or drink can provide a profound sense of connection to one's spiritual beliefs and practices. As billions of people around the world participate in Lent and Ramadan, it highlights the universal human desire to transcend the physical and connect with the divine.

The details

During Lent, many Christians will fast by giving up certain foods or activities, while Muslims observe Ramadan by abstaining from eating, drinking, and other sensual pleasures from dawn to dusk. The author shares his own irregular practice of fasting, noting that while it can be challenging, it also heightens his senses and awareness of the world around him, including the 'petrichor' - the earthy scent after rain - and the less pleasant smells of daily life.

  • Lent and Ramadan both began this past week.
  • The author says his spiritual practice of fasting is irregular.

The players

Andrew Taylor-Troutman

The author of the book 'This Is the Day: A Year of Observing Unofficial Holidays' and a student of joy living in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Prophet Muhammad

The founder of Islam, who reportedly said that the smell of a fasting person's mouth is more pleasing to Allah than sweet perfume.

Kevin Hart

A Duke University professor and poet who said 'The spiritual world is within this one, not as a secret but as a radiance.'

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What they’re saying

“The spiritual world is within this one, not as a secret but as a radiance.”

— Kevin Hart, Duke University professor and poet (Chapelboro.com)

“The smell of a fasting person's mouth is more pleasing to Allah than sweet perfume.”

— Prophet Muhammad (Chapelboro.com)

The takeaway

Fasting during Lent and Ramadan is a profound spiritual practice for billions of people, transcending physical deprivation to connect with the divine. While challenging, the experience of abstaining can heighten one's senses and awareness, providing a deeper appreciation for the world and the sacred within the mundane.