Types of Fasting in the Bible
Fasting plays an important part in the Bible. It seems every time there is a major transformation or direct communication with God fasting is involved.
There are several primary types of fasting presented. Below is a quick summary of the different types. Hopefully it helps you find the path that's right for you.
Partial Fasting
This type of fasting is what Daniel did in Daniel 1:12 and Daniel 10:2-3 in which he didn't eat anything except whole foods and drank nothing but water.
The Catholic tradition also follows a partial fast during lent when they don't eat meat on Fridays.
Other examples of partial fasting are juice fasts and possibly even the ketogenic diet.
Water Fasting
For most people in the present day this is the most well known type of fasting. It involves no food and only drinking water.
It is possible this is what Jesus did in the desert after his baptism when he fasted 40 days. Matthew 4:2 It actually doesn't specify except that he was hungry and doesn't mention thirst.
One thing to keep in mind is that in the Bible 40 days generally symbolizes a very long time. Also 40 years generally symbolizes a lifetime or generation.
Don't try to fast for 40 days or you will probably die.
No Water Fasting
aka Dry Fasting
This is the most extreme type of fasting and should be approached with caution. It is also the most powerful. In this type you don't eat or drink anything for a time.
Some examples in the Bible are Acts 9:9 where Paul sees his vision on the road and then fasts for three days and accepts the Holy Spirit. Another example is Esther 4:15-16 where she and her servants all fast for three days. Another likely example is 2 Chronicles 20:3 when God causes three huge allied armies to turn on each other completely destroying one another.
In my experience no water or dry fasting seems to triple the effects of fast so each day is similar to the days if you had water. I noticed very much enhanced dreams and my memory of them seemed much better.