The General Principle: Water as Sustenance
For most of the fasting days observed within the Greek Orthodox tradition, such as Wednesdays and Fridays or during Great Lent, the prohibition focuses on specific food groups rather than liquids. Fasting is primarily an ascetic discipline to moderate physical appetite and turn the mind towards spiritual matters. The body's need for hydration is understood as a necessity, not an indulgence. Therefore, drinking plain water is not considered a violation of the fast and is essential for health, especially during extended fasts.
The Ascetic Purpose of Fasting
The goal of Orthodox fasting is to voluntarily humble the body and grow in virtue, not to cause harm. The discomfort of hunger is meant to redirect focus towards prayer and spiritual nourishment. Denying the body of essential hydration, however, is generally not part of this practice and can be dangerous. It is also important to note that the fast is observed with humility and should not be a cause for pride or judging others.
Specific Exceptions and Stricter Practices
While water is generally allowed, there are very specific instances where a stricter observance is practiced, traditionally in monastic contexts, and sometimes adopted by laypeople.
The Eucharistic Fast
The most common and important exception is the fast before receiving Holy Communion. According to the rule, a person should consume absolutely nothing—no food or drink, including water—from midnight until after receiving Communion at the Divine Liturgy. This is done as an act of reverence and preparation to receive the Body and Blood of Christ. For an evening Liturgy, the fast is typically for at least six hours.
Great and Holy Friday
This day commemorates the crucifixion of Christ and is observed with the most solemn and strict fast of the year. The faithful who are physically able may observe a total fast from all food and drink until sunset or after the Vespers service. This practice varies based on individual strength and guidance from a spiritual father.
The Practice of Xerophagy
For some periods, like the first days of Great Lent (known as Clean Monday) or Holy Week, a practice called xerophagy, or "dry eating," is observed. This refers to consuming a diet of uncooked food with minimal preparation, but notably, water is still permitted. It strictly excludes oil and wine, and in some traditions, even cooked vegetables.
Comparison of Water Rules by Fasting Period
| Fasting Period | Water Rule | Food Restrictions | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Fasts (Wed/Fri) | Allowed | No meat, dairy, eggs, or fish with backbones. | None (Water is permitted). |
| Great Lent (Mon-Fri) | Allowed | No meat, dairy, eggs, fish, wine, or oil. | See below for stricter days.. |
| Great Lent (Sat/Sun) | Allowed | No meat, dairy, eggs, or fish. Oil and wine permitted. | None (Water is permitted). |
| Clean Monday (Strict) | Allowed (often with uncooked food) | Traditionally involves a very rigorous diet with bread, uncooked vegetables, fruit, and nuts. | Total fast from food for the first three days is for those with sufficient strength. |
| Great and Holy Friday | Restricted (Voluntary total fast) | The strictest fast day. Many abstain from all food and water until sunset. | Not a requirement for those with health conditions. |
| Before Holy Communion | Forbidden | Total abstinence from all food and drink from midnight or for at least six hours. | Medical exceptions with priest's blessing. |
Navigating Fasting Rules with Health and Compassion
The Greek Orthodox Church has always made provisions for those who cannot keep the fast strictly due to health, age, or other circumstances. Fasting should never be pursued to the detriment of one's physical well-being. Individuals with conditions like diabetes, for example, must eat regularly and should consult their doctor and priest for a modified fasting plan. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and the elderly are also exempt from the strictest fasts. The Church emphasizes a compassionate and humble approach, understanding that the spiritual intent is more important than strict legalism. For further reading on the traditions of Orthodox fasting, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America provides detailed guidance on its website.
Tips for Maintaining Hydration During Fasting
- Drink consistently: Don't wait until you are extremely thirsty. Drink water steadily throughout the day.
- Consider fruit juices: During fasts that permit liquids besides water, fruit juice can help maintain energy and provide some hydration, but be mindful of rules regarding sweetness.
- Eat hydrating foods: On days when food is permitted, include water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, especially uncooked ones during periods of xerophagy.
- Listen to your body: If you feel weak or unwell, especially during a stricter phase of fasting, it is crucial to break the fast as needed for your health.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the question of "is drinking water allowed when fasting for Greeks" has a nuanced answer. For the vast majority of fasting periods, plain water is not only permitted but encouraged for health reasons. However, there are specific, highly reverential fasts, most notably before receiving Holy Communion and on Holy Friday for some, where all food and drink, including water, are traditionally restricted. The underlying principle is that the spiritual benefit of fasting should not come at the expense of one's physical health, and personal circumstances and the advice of a spiritual guide must always be considered.
