Caput XVII. Persequitur de virtute jejunii.
The Power of Fasting
Fasting is presented as a vital spiritual discipline that counters temptation, provides refuge in trial, and, as Christ taught, is essential for overcoming the most stubborn demons.
Fasting, then, is the answer to every temptation and to our sinful condition. In every trial it is a useful refuge, an unshakable support for all of us. And how great the power of fasting is, Christ himself did not keep silent about it, telling us why the disciples could not drive out the demon who had seized the man. This kind of demon, he said, cannot be driven out except by prayer and fasting. (Mark 9:28) Mark 9:28.
Read the original Latin
Est ergo jejunium contra omnia tentamenta et peccabilem statum. In omni tribulatione utile refugium, omnibus nostris irrefragabile fulcimentum. Quantae autem virtutis sit jejunium ipse Christus non tacuit, cur daemonem qui lunaticum invaserat, ejicere non potuerunt. Hoc genus, inquit, daemoniorum non potest ejici, nisi in oratione et jejunio (Marc. IX, 28).
De institutione inclusarum (A Rule of Life for a Recluse) companion
A rule only lives if you keep it daily
Chosen Portion gives your new rule its anchor: one free devotional portion every day.
Aelred built his sister's day around fixed times of prayer and meditation; Chosen Portion supplies the fixed daily portion that makes a modern rule of life keepable.
- Anchor your rule with a fixed 10-minute daily portion
- Practice Aelred's threefold meditation with guided daily prompts
- Review and adjust your one-page rule after 30 days of tracked practice