Lent is 40 days long because the number 40 is biblically significant, symbolizing a time of testing, trial, penance, and purification. The 40-day period of Lent (excluding Sundays) mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent fasting and being tempted in the desert before beginning his public ministry. This span is meant to be a spiritually preparatory time leading up to Easter. Sundays are excluded because they are considered feast days celebrating the resurrection, so the actual duration from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday totals 46 calendar days, with 40 days designated for fasting and penance in imitation of Christ.
The tradition dates back to early Church practices and was formalized in councils such as the Council of Nicaea. The emphasis on 40 days also echoes other biblical events involving the number 40, like Moses and Elijah fasting for 40 days, as well as other Old Testament periods of trial and preparation.
Thus, Lent's 40 days serve as a symbolic period of reflection and spiritual discipline in preparation for the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection on Easter.
