Fasting was required on the Day of Atonement as a sign of affliction, humility, and repentance before God. It was a solemn day for self-examination and sorrow over sin, during which the people were to deny themselves and focus entirely on the need for atonement and forgiveness.
Leviticus 16:29 says:
“This shall be a statute forever for you: In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, you shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all…”
The phrase “afflict your souls” refers to fasting and contrition. It was not a time for feasting or celebration but for recognizing the seriousness of sin and the necessity of God’s mercy. Israel was to approach this day with reverence and awareness of their need for cleansing.
Leviticus 23:27 confirms this:
“Also the tenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day of Atonement. It shall be a holy convocation for you; you shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire to the Lord.”
Fasting was a visible expression of inward repentance. It humbled the people and prepared their hearts to receive atonement through the priest’s actions.
This practice pointed forward to Christ’s atoning work and the appropriate response of humility and faith. While believers today are not bound to observe the Day of Atonement, the principle remains: approaching God’s forgiveness requires genuine repentance and a humble heart.
