Category: Orthodox christianity

According to ancient monastic traditions, Orthodox Christians abstain from meat, dairy, eggs, and fish during Great Lent. This strict fasting period has given rise to a rich tradition of delicious and satisfying meatless meals, answering the question: what are some traditional Orthodox Lenten dishes?

The Orthodox Christian fasting rules are among the most disciplined in the world, with observers abstaining from specific food categories throughout the year. For those participating in Great Lent, a popular question arises concerning staple pantry items like peanut butter. This article will clarify the position of peanut butter within Orthodox Lenten guidelines, focusing on crucial details regarding ingredients and practice.

Orthodox Christians, who make up about 260 million people worldwide, adhere to specific dietary restrictions, most notably during numerous fasting periods throughout the year. These restrictions outline precisely what foods do Orthodox Christians not eat, as a spiritual discipline aimed at subduing the passions and focusing on God.

According to Orthodox tradition, the faithful fast approximately 180 to 200 days a year, abstaining from meat, dairy, and eggs during specific periods. So, what do Greek Orthodox eat during fasting to follow these strict dietary rules? They turn to a rich culinary tradition of vibrant, plant-based dishes and allowed seafood.

The Dormition Fast, observed from August 1-14 by many Orthodox Christians, is one of the strictest fasting periods in the ecclesiastical calendar, second only to Great Lent. This guide offers practical advice on permitted foods, daily variations in dietary strictness, and meal suggestions to support your spiritual practice.

The Apostles' Fast, one of the four main fasting seasons in the Orthodox Church, begins the Monday after All Saints Sunday and ends on June 29th. This guide provides a complete overview of what can you eat during the Apostles' Fast, from strict weekdays to more lenient weekends, to help you prepare your meals and your soul.

First officially established at a synod in 1166, the Nativity fast is a 40-day preparatory period in the Eastern Orthodox Church. So, what is the point of the Nativity fast, and why does this tradition continue to guide believers toward the profound joy of Christ's birth?

Orthodox Christians observe over 180 fasting days per year, and a common question arises: can I eat eggs during orthodox fasting? The answer is generally no, but the specific rules depend on the fasting period and the guidance of your spiritual father.

According to the general fasting rules of the Orthodox Church, shellfish like shrimp are typically permitted during Great Lent, a distinction that surprises many. This acceptance stems from a historical interpretation that differentiates between "blooded" animals, like fish with backbones, and "bloodless" creatures such as crustaceans. For many Orthodox faithful, understanding this nuanced regulation is key to observing the Lenten fast correctly.