Biblical fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline centered on humility, prayer, and seeking God’s presence. While the Bible doesn’t always specify what liquids are allowed, most biblical fasts likely included water, especially during longer periods like Jesus’ 40-day fast. Absolute fasts, where no food or water is consumed, are rare and typically for short, urgent purposes—like in Esther’s story. Understanding the purpose and type of fast you’re committing to helps determine what liquids are appropriate.
Generally, water is always allowed, while herbal teas and juices might be acceptable during partial fasts. Coffee and broth are typically discouraged, especially if you’re aiming to follow a strict, biblical model. The key is focusing on God, not the rules. If you’re planning a fast or want to grow spiritually through one, it’s important to align your approach with Scripture and your personal convictions. Keep reading for a deeper dive into each liquid, examples from the Bible, and how to choose the right fast for your spiritual journey.
If you’re preparing for a biblical fast, you might be wondering what’s allowed—especially when it comes to liquids. The Bible talks a lot about fasting, but it doesn’t always give the kind of detail we’re looking for today. So, let’s break it down. What does the Bible say about fasting? What liquids can you drink during a fast? And what’s just tradition versus what’s truly biblical?
Whether you’re new to fasting or just want a deeper understanding, this guide covers it all.
What Is Biblical Fasting?
Biblical fasting is voluntarily going without food—and sometimes drink—for a spiritual purpose. It’s an act of humility and dependence on God. Fasting isn’t about punishing your body. It’s about focusing your heart.
In the Bible, people fasted to:
- Seek God’s guidance (Judges 20:26)
- Repent (Joel 2:12)
- Mourn (2 Samuel 1:12)
- Gain spiritual strength (Matthew 4:1–2)
Jesus fasted. Moses fasted. So did Paul. Clearly, it’s an important spiritual discipline.
Does the Bible Mention Drinking Liquids During a Fast?
Short answer: not explicitly.
Most biblical accounts focus on whether people ate—not on what they drank. That said, we can draw some conclusions based on context and tradition.
Three Types of Fasts in the Bible
- Normal Fast – Abstaining from food but not water.
- Example: Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights (Matthew 4:2). It doesn’t say He drank, but since the human body can’t survive 40 days without water, it’s likely He drank water.
- Absolute Fast – No food or water.
- Example: Esther told the Jews, “Do not eat or drink for three days” (Esther 4:16). That’s an absolute fast.
- Partial Fast – Restricting certain foods or drinks.
- Example: Daniel fasted by avoiding meat and wine (Daniel 10:3).
So, What Liquids Are Allowed?
Let’s look at what’s generally accepted in a biblical or spiritual fast. Here’s a breakdown of the most common liquids and whether they’re biblically or traditionally accepted.
1. Water – YES
Water is allowed—and essential—on most biblical fasts, especially normal fasts.
- Your body can survive weeks without food, but only about 3–5 days without water.
- Jesus likely drank water during His 40-day fast in the wilderness, even though Scripture doesn’t explicitly say so.
💧 Tip: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on longer fasts.
2. Herbal Teas – MAYBE
Herbal teas are not mentioned in the Bible, but many people include them in modern fasts because they:
- Contain no calories (if unsweetened)
- Support hydration
- Help soothe the stomach
If you’re doing a strict biblical fast, stick to water. But if your goal is spiritual focus and herbal tea helps, it’s not breaking any rule unless God has convicted you otherwise.
3. Juice – SOMETIMES
Fresh fruit or vegetable juice is often used in partial fasts or Daniel-style fasts.
- Juice provides some calories and nutrients
- It can help sustain energy during longer fasts
- It’s not part of a true “no food” fast, but many find it helps them stay spiritually and physically strong
If you’re fasting like Daniel, juice is totally fine. But if you’re following a stricter fast, skip it.
4. Coffee – GENERALLY NO
This one’s controversial.
- Coffee isn’t mentioned in the Bible.
- It contains caffeine, which stimulates the body and mind.
- Many argue it interferes with the humility and simplicity of fasting.
However, some people still drink black coffee (no cream or sugar) to avoid caffeine withdrawal headaches. If you do drink it, keep it minimal and prayerfully consider if it’s appropriate for your fast.
5. Broth – SOMETIMES
Bone or vegetable broth is technically food. But some people include it in longer fasts for strength and electrolytes.
- Not mentioned in the Bible
- Not part of a traditional fast
- Can help you fast longer without breaking down physically
If you’re doing a medically supported or extended fast, broth might be okay. But if you’re doing a biblical fast for spiritual reasons, it’s probably best to avoid it.
When an Absolute Fast Applies
In special situations, the Bible describes absolute fasts—no food or water.
Examples:
- Moses went without food and water for 40 days on Mount Sinai (Deuteronomy 9:9). This was supernatural. Don’t attempt this without God’s direct leading.
- Esther asked the people to fast with no food or water for 3 days (Esther 4:16). This was a short, urgent fast before going to the king.
These are exceptions, not the norm. Most biblical fasts allow water.
Should You Customize Your Fast?
Yes—if you do it prayerfully.
Ask yourself:
- What’s the purpose of this fast?
- What’s God leading me to do?
- What would honor Him most?
A fast isn’t about checking boxes or following someone else’s rules. It’s about surrender, prayer, and closeness with God.
Paul wrote, “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). That includes fasting.
A Quick Liquid Guide for Your Fast
| Liquid | Allowed in a Biblical Fast? | Notes |
| Water | ✅ Yes | Essential and encouraged |
| Herbal Tea | ⚠️ Maybe | Fine if unsweetened; use discernment |
| Juice | ⚠️ Sometimes | Good for partial fasts |
| Black Coffee | ❌ Usually No | Not biblical; some exceptions made |
| Broth | ❌ Usually No | Not a true fast; helps with physical weakness |
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Holy
At the end of the day, fasting is about your heart, not your drink menu. Don’t overcomplicate it.
Stick to water if you want to be as biblically aligned as possible. But if you’re doing a longer fast, or God’s leading you in a different direction, there’s grace.
Just make sure whatever you do is rooted in:
- Prayer
- Obedience
- Humility
- Focus on God
Remember Jesus’ words: “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen.” (Matthew 6:16-18)
That’s the heart of biblical fasting. Quiet devotion. Deep connection. Real surrender.
Ready to Start Your Fast?
Prepare your heart, not just your body. Start with prayer, plan your fast, and know what you’ll drink. Water is always safe. Everything else? Ask God.
And remember—you’re not earning His favor by fasting. You’re responding to His love.
If you’re fasting soon, may it be powerful and full of God’s presence.
FAQs: Biblical Fasting – What Liquids Are Allowed?
1. Can I drink water during a biblical fast?
Yes, in most cases, biblical fasting allows water. While the Bible doesn’t always say it directly, water is assumed in normal fasts. Your body needs it, and staying hydrated helps you focus on prayer rather than physical discomfort.
2. Does biblical fasting allow coffee?
Typically, coffee is not allowed in biblical fasting, especially if you’re aiming for a strict or traditional fast. It’s not mentioned in Scripture and may distract from the spiritual focus. Some people allow black coffee in modern fasts, but that’s more of a personal or medical choice than a biblical one.
3. Can I drink juice during a biblical fast?
Biblical fasting may allow juice during a partial or Daniel-style fast. Juice isn’t traditionally part of a normal or absolute fast, but if it supports your health and you’re still focused on God, it may be fine in moderation.
4. Is herbal tea acceptable in biblical fasting?
Herbal tea is sometimes allowed in biblical fasting, especially if it’s unsweetened and calorie-free. It’s not in the Bible, but it can help with hydration and calm the body during a fast. Use prayer and discernment when deciding.
5. What’s the difference between a normal and absolute fast in the Bible?
A normal biblical fast allows water but no food, like Jesus’ fast in the wilderness. An absolute fast prohibits both food and water, like Esther’s 3-day fast. Absolute fasts are rare and usually short-term due to physical limitations.
6. Can I have broth during a biblical fast?
Broth is usually not allowed in biblical fasting, as it contains calories and nutrients, which makes it more like food. Some use it in extended or medically supervised fasts, but biblically, it’s not part of a true fast.
7. What liquids did Jesus drink during His 40-day fast?
The Bible doesn’t say, but since biblical fasting in Jesus’ case was likely a normal fast, He probably drank water. Going 40 days without any liquid isn’t naturally possible without divine intervention.
8. Is it okay to customize the liquids I drink during a biblical fast?
Yes. Biblical fasting and what liquids are allowed can vary based on your health, purpose, and personal conviction. The key is to stay focused on God, not just follow rigid rules.
9. Are flavored waters or electrolyte drinks okay during a biblical fast?
Biblical fasting doesn’t include flavored or enhanced drinks, but if you’re fasting for an extended time and need electrolytes, they may be necessary. For spiritual fasts, plain water is best unless God convicts you otherwise.
10. What’s the main goal of biblical fasting if not just avoiding food and drink?
The goal of biblical fasting—regardless of what liquids are allowed—is spiritual focus. It’s about humbling yourself before God, praying, repenting, or seeking His will. The external sacrifice supports an internal transformation.
