Question:
What is the purpose of fasting on Yom Kippur?
AskTheRabbi.org answered:
Fasting is a way of ignoring our physical needs and focusing entirely on our spiritual side. This is in marked contrast to how we often act during the rest of the year, when we tend to our physical needs, often neglecting (and sometimes even damaging) our spiritual selves. Recognizing that we have frequently indulged in such behavior, fasting impresses upon us that enjoying the physical world is a privilege we may not deserve.
Fasting helps remove distractions and temptations in order to focus on the essence of life. In addition, fasting contributes to a feeling of humility, appropriate to one who is asking for forgiveness and atonement on this Day of Atonement.
May we all be written and sealed in the Book of Life!
