Monks and nuns may engage in fasting as a form of self-denial and spiritual growth, while laypeople may fast as a form of meditation or seeking enlightenment. In Judaism, fasting is a common practice on certain holy days, such as Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. On Yom Kippur, Jewish people fast for 25 hours as a way to repent for their sins and seek forgiveness from God. Fasting is also practiced on other occasions, such as Tisha B'Av, a day of mourning for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. In Sikhism, fasting is not prescribed as a religious practice, but some followers may choose to fast as a way to show devotion to their faith.
