King James Bible
"That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly."
Jesus instructs disciples to conceal their fasting from public view, countering the Pharisaic practice of making spiritual disciplines visible for social approval. This directive emphasizes that religious acts should flow from genuine devotion rather than desire for human recognition. The contrast redirects fasting's audience from people to God alone, who dwells in the hidden realm beyond human observation. This phrase establishes the intimate, private nature of authentic spiritual practice where God becomes the sole witness. God's omniscient perception penetrates all concealment, validating that nothing escapes divine notice even when hidden from human eyes. This assurance transforms secret devotion into meaningful communion with an all-seeing Father. The promise guarantees divine recompense that will be manifest and evident, though the timing and nature remain unspecified. This reversal—from secret practice to open reward—demonstrates God's justice in honoring genuine rather than performative piety.