In the Jewish tradition, Yom Kippur—the holiest day of the year—is a 25-hour Day of Atonement devoted to self-reflection, repentance (teshuvah), and prayer. Fasting during this time is intended to shift focus from physical needs to spiritual renewal and a deeper sense of connection. The discomfort of fasting can serve as a reminder of life’s bigger questions, bringing people together in a shared effort to rise above personal struggles.
For those living with illness, this perspective is often already present. They may frequently reflect on life, death, and meaning. The experience of fasting, with its discomfort and even pain, mirrors in some ways what people with illness live with daily.
In 2025, Yom Kippur will begin at sundown on October 1 and end at nightfall on October 2. However, Jewish tradition is clear: if someone is ill, they are not required to fast. Health must come first, and it’s important to seek a doctor’s guidance—and, if relevant, a Rabbi’s guidance as well. Yom Kippur ultimately reminds that while each person sits with their own challenges, the day is a call to rise above the personal and connect with something greater.
For those managing a chronic illness like lupus, it’s important to check with your health care team before deciding to fast or change your medications.
Lupus and Fasting
Judaism teaches that preserving life comes before fasting, and those who are ill are exempt. For people with lupus—where symptoms, medications, and hydration needs can make fasting challenging—it’s important to prioritize health. Jewish law affirms that one should not endanger their body to observe Yom Kippur, so consulting a doctor (and rabbi, if desired) is essential.
If you have lupus and feel guilty about not fasting, remember that not fasting isn’t skipping Yom Kippur; it’s honoring it in the way Judaism intends.
For those with health concerns who cannot fast, Yom Kippur can still be observed meaningfully through intentional actions and reflection. While the traditional fast is a central practice, there are many alternative ways to honor the day:
- Practice a “spiritual fast”: Avoid certain indulgences like sweets, processed foods, television, social media, or even judging others.
- Engage in prayer and synagogue attendance: Focus on the words of the prayers and participate fully in services.
- Reflect on Torah portions: Read and contemplate the lessons and messages of the holiday’s readings.
- Pursue teshuvah (repentance): Make amends, set personal commitments, and consider changes for the year ahead.
- Mindful behaviors: Choose how you sit, speak, and interact to foster self-discipline and spiritual focus.
- Prioritize health: Following the principle of pikuach nefesh, taking care of your body—including taking necessary medications—is itself a way to honor God.
Just as there are many ways for individuals to honor Yom Kippur without fasting, families and loved ones can play an important role in supporting those choices and helping create a meaningful holiday experience.
Supporting a loved one who cannot fast on Yom Kippur begins with normalizing their choice. Just as society has worked to reduce stigma around many personal decisions, families can create a nonjudgmental space around the decision not to fast.
Reaffirming the importance of self-care—such as offering nutritious food or keeping them company while they eat—can be a powerful way to show support, echoing the idea that saving a life is like saving the world. It’s also helpful to reassure family members that choosing not to fast is consistent with Jewish law and tradition.
Families can find meaningful ways to observe the holiday together, whether attending synagogue, praying together, studying, or reflecting on the themes of teshuvah, atonement, and repentance.
As a practical tip, having a “Prayer for Those Not Fasting” available during the High Holy Days can provide comfort and inclusion for those observing differently.
Staying Safe if You Choose to Fast
If you have lupus and want to fast during Yom Kippur, it’s important to approach it carefully to protect your health. Start by consulting your doctor to confirm that fasting is safe for you and to discuss any adjustments to medications or treatment schedules.
Stay well-hydrated before and after the fast, and plan balanced, nutrient-rich meals to support your energy and immune system. Monitor your body closely for warning signs like fatigue, dizziness, or unusual pain, and be prepared to break the fast if necessary.
Finally consider modifying the fast—such as eating prescribed portions at regular intervals, or shortening the duration or avoiding only certain foods—so you can participate meaningfully while minimizing health risks.
This post was originally published on this site