The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Vol 1 - Predestination

went so far as to relate how a Jewish saint was
thereby rendered proof against the fire of Gehenna,
of which a realistic demonstration was given when
his body ^JjMejuM was rendered proof against
ordinary fire.**
3m end Even apart from such extravagances,
Babbinism gave an alto-
gether external aspect to fasting. In this it only
developed to its utmost consequences a theology
against which the Prophets of old had already
protested. Perhaps, however, the Jews are not
solitary in their misconception and perversion of
fasting. In their view, it was the readiest means of
turning aside any threatening calamity, such as
drought, pestilence, or national danger. This, ex
opere operaio : because fasting was selfpunishment
and mortification, not because a fast
meant mourning (for sin, not for its punishment),
and hence indicated humiliation, acknowledgment
of sin, and repentance. The second and fifth days
of the week (Monday and Thursday) • were those