Introduction

The practice of fasting during exorcisms has long been a topic of curiosity and debate. Many believe that fasting helps to cleanse the body and spirit, making it easier for exorcisms to be effective. This article delves into the reasons why we sometimes fast when trying to cast out evil spirits, the connection between undigested food and demonic possession, and the role of parasites in this spiritual cleansing process.

Why We Fast

Fasting is a common practice in many religions and spiritual traditions, often used as a means of purifying the body and mind. In the context of exorcisms, fasting serves a practical purpose: it empties the stomach and removes the potential for demons to interact with physical substances. When the belly is empty, the spirit's connection to physical matter is weaker, making it easier to cast out the evil spirits. This is why Jesus is quoted as saying, 'It is not what goes into the belly and passes through it that defiles a person, but what comes out of the belly' (Mark 7:15).

The Role of Parasites and Food

The concept of parasites in the context of spiritual cleansing is noteworthy. Parasites can infest the human body, causing a myriad of health issues. However, their presence is not merely a physical problem; they can also influence a person's mental and spiritual state.

Carlton Fredericks, a self-proclaimed demonologist, explains that demons can sometimes taste what you eat, implying a connection between what we ingest and our spiritual state. This translation of physical to spiritual is a central theme in the discussion of exorcism and fasting.

Unclean Spirits and Unclean Meats

The Bible often refers to evil spirits as unclean, suggesting that they are present in unclean objects and substances, including certain meats. Hence, fasting when one has consumed unclean meats can help to purify the body and spirit alike.

Scientific Perspective on Parasites and Fasting

According to some scientific studies, parasites can indeed control human behavior and manipulate the mind. Kathleen McAuliffe's book This Is Your Brain on Parasites explores how parasites can influence the brain and behavior, providing a fascinating glimpse into the dark underbelly of human biology.

Many people believe that cooking meat to a specific temperature can eliminate parasites, but the truth is more complex. Parasites can become deactivated but may still be present in the meat and reactivate once ingested. Their reactivation within the human body can cause prolonged health issues. Furthermore, research into this area is limited, possibly due to the commercial interests involved. Trillions of dollars are generated globally from the sale of unclean meats, which could explain the lack of comprehensive studies.

Implications and Theories

Theories about the relationship between spiritual entities and food consumption are intriguing but not universally accepted. While some propose that spirits might taste what a person eats if they are dwelling within a human host, this is more of a speculative idea than a well-documented fact.

Fasting can be seen as a way to cleanse the body of potential parasites and toxins, creating a purified environment for exorcisms. In this context, fasting serves a dual purpose: it helps remove physical contaminants and prepares the body for spiritual purifications.

Conclusion

Fasting during exorcisms is a practice rooted in the belief that an empty body is more receptive to spiritual cleansing. The connection between parasites, undigested food, and spiritual beings highlights a fascinating but complex relationship between the physical and spiritual realms. While some aspects of this practice remain speculative, understanding the potential roles of parasites and their influence on human health and behavior provides a more holistic view of the exorcism process.

The research into parasites and their impact on the human body continues to evolve, and this knowledge can be used to enhance our understanding and practices in spiritual cleansing.