Observe Fasting and Religious Retreat

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Observe Fasting and Religious Retreat

Original term: Posadhopavasa Vrata

Literal meaning

Undertake periodic fasting and intensified religious discipline.

Broader interpretation

This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.

Historical context

This item belongs to Jain Twelve Lay Vows. Ancient and classical Jain tradition; Indian subcontinent.

Practical meaning

Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.

Exceptions and disputes

Fasting must account for health, age, pregnancy, disability and medical advice.

Variations across schools or traditions

Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.

Modern application

Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Fasting must account for health, age, pregnancy, disability and medical advice.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

• Worship
• Self-control

Sources

• The Vratas (Vows) of Householders Commentary / interpretation