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How could one fast for 40 days and 40 nights as mentioned in the scriptures?

Gramps,

Is there a rational explanation to explain how Jesus Christ, Elijah, and Moses were all able to fast for 40 days and 40 nights? I could possibly believe that a person can go 40 days without food. But there is no way that a human being can go 40 days without water. Do we know if these individuals literally went 40 days without food and water? Thanks for your help.

Mike, from Eagle Point, Oregon

Dear Mike,

There are several kinds of fasts.Â Those acquainted with the Â religious cultureÂ in the Mormon Church are most acquainted with a complete fast, i.e., one in which the person ingests nothing into the body. As you know, these fasts are enjoined for the duration of one 24-hour day. Another kind of fast is to abstain from food, but not from water. I would assume that it was this kind of fast that was employed for the 40-day period.

Gramps

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