Gaby
Many of us might only know the definition of fasting as described in dictionaries: fasting is the abstention from rich foods, specifically meat and dairy, as prescribed by the church. However, with a growing interest in religion and church rituals, many are eager to learn more about fasting—its duration, purpose, and what kind of food is appropriate during this time.
Fasting periods involve abstaining from rich foods, intimate marital relations, and worldly pleasures in many religions.
Observing fasts is an ancient tradition. Our distant ancestors recognized a connection between abstaining from rich foods and spiritual growth. During fasting periods, churches exude a unique atmosphere that encourages believers to repent, confess their sins, and seek spiritual renewal. Abstaining from rich foods is not an end in itself; rather, fasting is a means to strengthen the spirit, achieve moral purification, and restore oneself.
It’s important to note that Christianity does not impose strict fasting on its followers but rather suggests refraining from meat and dairy at certain times. True fasting is less about the denial of food and more about refraining from evil. It is not what enters the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the heart.
Now, let’s discuss the fasts themselves, starting with the longer ones. The Great Lent lasts for six weeks and is followed by Holy Week. Together, these fasting periods span seven weeks leading up to Easter.
Eight weeks after Easter, the Apostles’ Fast begins, concluding on the eve of the feast commemorating the holy apostles Peter and Paul (July 12).
On August 14, the Dormition Fast begins, lasting until August 28, from the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross to the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos, marking the end of her earthly life.
The last of the extended fasts starts on the Feast of the Apostle Philip (Philippovka) on November 28 and continues until Christmas (January 7).
The Orthodox Church prescribes one-day fasts on Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the year, except during continuous weeks and the Christmas season (January 7-17). Notable fasting days include September 11 (the Beheading of St. John the Baptist) and September 27 (the Exaltation of the Holy Cross).
According to church regulations, there is no fasting on the feasts of Christmas and Epiphany if they fall on a Wednesday or Friday. Strict fasting occurs on January 6 and 18, the eve of Christmas and Epiphany. However, if these eves are celebrated on a Saturday or Sunday, food prepared with oil is permitted. On the Feast of the Presentation (February 15), the Transfiguration (August 19), the Nativity of the Theotokos (September 21), the Entrance into the Temple (December 4), the Dormition (August 28), the Nativity of St. John the Baptist (July 7), Ivan Kupala Day, and the feasts of the apostles Peter and Paul (July 12) and John the Theologian (October 9), if they fall on a Wednesday or Friday, fish dishes are allowed.
From Easter until Pentecost (Green Sunday), fish can be consumed on Wednesdays and Fridays.
During fasting periods, meat, dairy products, cheese, eggs, and fish are not consumed.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children are exempt from fasting. With the blessing of a spiritual advisor, fasting can be relaxed for the sick and elderly.
The revival of the church is linked to the purification of the human soul. Let fasting serve as a means for moral improvement. It’s worth emphasizing once more: the church does not compel everyone to fast; it merely invites believers to test their willpower, refrain from evil thoughts, and open their hearts to goodness and love—both for God and for others.
