Matthew 11:18 describes John's ascetic lifestyle — his disciples' fasting aligns with their master, contrasting with Jesus' approach.

Matthew 11:19 contrasts Jesus' eating and drinking with John's asceticism — the fasting question introduces that contrast.

Matthew 6:16 gives Jesus' teaching on how to fast — here His disciples' lack of fasting prompts a question about timing.

Mark 2:18-22 records the same event, adding the parables of new cloth and wineskins to Jesus' response about fasting.

Luke 5:33-39 is the parallel account of this same question, with Jesus' parable of the bridegroom and new wine.

Luke 18:12 provides a concrete example: the Pharisee boasts 'I fast twice a week' — directly illustrating the Pharisees' frequent fasting.

Luke 18:9-12 features a Pharisee boasting about fasting twice a week, illustrating the self-righteous fasting practice behind the question here.

John 3:25 has John's disciples disputing about ceremonial washing — similar to their concern over fasting practices here.