νηστεύω (nēsteuō)
nēsteuō
to fast
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 16 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb nēsteuō describes the religious practice of fasting, defined as abstaining from food and drink for spiritual purposes. In the New Testament, this act ranges from complete abstinence for a single day to limiting one’s diet over several days. The sources note that it corresponds to the Hebrew tsuwm found in the Septuagint, linking early Christian discipline directly to Jewish tradition.
Jesus addresses this practice with practical instruction rather than ritualistic demand. In Matthew 6:16-18, He warns against making fasting a public display of piety, urging believers to maintain normal hygiene and appearance while abstaining. This approach strips the act of social performance, framing it as a private matter between the individual and God.
The Gospels frequently pair this verb with questions from religious leaders who assume fasting is obligatory. Jesus responds by illustrating that His presence changes the context of such disciplines (Matthew 9:14-15; Mark 2:18-20). Later, the early church engages in fasting during significant moments of decision and worship, as seen in Acts 13:2-3. The word consistently points to a deliberate physical denial used to focus spiritual attention.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Fasting is often misunderstood as a spiritual performance or a way to earn God’s favor. In reality, it is a simple act of physical denial that helps focus our attention on Him. Jesus taught His followers to fast in private, washing their faces and maintaining their normal appearance so that the act remains between them and God alone (Matthew 6:17-18). This removes any social pressure or need for recognition.
When we choose to abstain from food, we are not trying to manipulate God but rather creating space to listen more clearly. It is a way of saying that our relationship with Him matters more than our immediate physical needs. Whether done in times of decision, like the early church sending out missionaries (Acts 13:2), or in personal seasons of reflection, it serves as a quiet reminder that God sustains us.
This practice invites us to slow down and seek His presence without distraction. It is not about punishment but about prioritizing spiritual nourishment over physical comfort. As you consider this discipline, remember that God sees the heart behind the act, not just the outward appearance.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 16 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fasting4×
- to fast?2×
- they will fast2×
- having fasted2×
- fast?2×
- you may fast,1×
- to fast.1×
- they will fast.1×
- fast,1×
- fast1×
- do fast1×
- [as] fasting.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- νηστεύων3×
- νηστεύσουσιν2×
- νηστεύουσιν;¶2×
- νηστεῦσαι;1×
- νηστεύω1×
- νηστεύσουσιν.1×
- νηστεύσας1×
- νηστεύσαντες1×
- νηστεύουσιν,1×
- νηστεύουσιν1×
- νηστεύοντες.1×
- νηστεύοντες1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 6:18
so that you are not seen by men to be fasting, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you.
Jesus instructs believers to fast in secret so that only God sees the act, emphasizing privacy over public display.
-
Acts 13:2
As they served the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Separate Barnabas and Saul for me, for the work to which I have called them.”
The early church combined fasting with worship and prayer to receive specific guidance for missionary work.
-
Matthew 9:15
Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.
Jesus explains that His presence brings joy, making mourning and fasting inappropriate until He is taken away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does fasting mean in the Bible?
Is fasting required for all Christians?
How should I fast according to Scripture?
Every Occurrence (16 verses across 4 books)
Matthew 6 verses
When he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was hungry afterward.
Matthew 6:16“Moreover when you fast, don’t be like the hypocrites, with sad faces. For they disfigure their faces that they may be…
Matthew 6:17But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,
Matthew 6:18so that you are not seen by men to be fasting, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father, who sees in…
Matthew 9:14Then John’s disciples came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples don’t fast?”
Matthew 9:15Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will…