Tag: Orthodox fasting

According to liturgical calendars, Western Christianity observes a special period of eight days known as the Christmas Octave, during which feasting is encouraged. The question, 'Do we fast after Christmas?' reveals a key difference between Western traditions that celebrate with joy and certain Eastern Orthodox practices that include specific, albeit contrasting, fasts during the surrounding season.

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.

Did you know that some Eastern Orthodox Christians may abstain from meat for more than half the year during various fasting periods? While many Christians consume meat, this is a common misconception, as dietary practices vary widely across different denominations and among individual believers.

While many Western Christians do not observe a strict pre-Christmas fast, Eastern Orthodox and Coptic Orthodox traditions require significant periods of fasting, which can last 40 or 43 days. This guide explains how many days you fast for Christmas across different Christian denominations and what the rules entail.

According to Greek Orthodox tradition, shellfish like shrimp are permitted on Clean Monday, which marks the first day of Great Lent. This day is a transition from carnival feasting to a period of spiritual and bodily purification.

According to Catholic Canon Law, the definition of meat for fasting generally excludes fish, amphibians, and shellfish, a distinction that surprises many. To properly adhere to religious observance, it is crucial to understand what is considered meat when fasting according to different traditions.

Monastic fasting is not a single practice but varies significantly across religious traditions and orders. Understanding what are the rules for monk fasting involves delving into the distinct guidelines of Buddhist, Orthodox Christian, and Catholic monks, each rooted in unique spiritual principles.