The Core Principle of Orthodox Fasting
Fasting in the Orthodox Church is primarily a spiritual discipline aimed at purifying the heart and mind to foster a closer relationship with God. It is understood as a spiritual exercise rather than a rigid legalistic requirement, pursued with joy and often guided by a spiritual father. This practice aids believers in gaining control over worldly desires and establishing a proper perspective on food. While exceptions are made for children, the elderly, and the sick, fasting is a significant aspect of Orthodox life for most faithful.
Year-Round Fasting
Fasting is observed weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays to commemorate Christ's betrayal and crucifixion, respectively. The typical foods prohibited on these days include meat and meat products, fish with backbones (shellfish may be permitted), dairy products and eggs, and, in stricter observances, wine and oil.
The Major Fasting Seasons
Orthodox Christians observe four main fasting periods annually, accounting for a substantial portion of the year. These include Great Lent, the Nativity Fast, Apostles' Fast, and Dormition Fast. Rules vary during these periods regarding the consumption of fish, wine, and oil, often with relaxations on weekends and specific feast days like Annunciation and Palm Sunday. The Dormition Fast is comparable in strictness to Great Lent. For detailed fasting rules for each season and specific days, refer to sources like {Link: Holy Protection Orthodox Church https://www.holyorthodox.org/fastingguidelines} and {Link: OCA https://www.oca.org/liturgics/outlines/fasting-fast-free-seasons-of-the-church}.
Comparison of Orthodox and Roman Catholic Fasting
| Feature | Eastern Orthodox Fasting | Roman Catholic Fasting (Post-Vatican II) |
|---|---|---|
| Abstinence | Abstains from all animal products (meat, dairy, eggs), fish with backbones, oil, and wine on strict fasting days. | Primarily abstains from meat on specific days (Ash Wednesday, Fridays of Lent). |
| Fast Days | Over 180 days a year, including weekly Wednesdays and Fridays, and four main fasting periods. | Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of both fasting and abstinence. Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. |
| Spirituality | Emphasizes self-control over passions, asceticism, and increased prayer. Rules vary by individual capacity and guidance from a spiritual father. | Focuses on penance and sacrifice during Lent. Rules are more standardized but less extensive. |
| Relaxations | Dispensations for health issues, travel, or hospitality are common. Fish, wine, and oil are often permitted on Saturdays and Sundays during fasts. | Medical necessity exempts a person from fasting. The rules are generally less restrictive and widespread. |
Frequently Excluded Foods
During Orthodox fasting periods, the following foods are generally excluded:
- Meat: All forms, including poultry and meat derivatives.
- Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter.
- Eggs: Prohibited during major fasts.
- Fish: Generally forbidden, especially fish with backbones, though shellfish may be permitted.
- Wine and Oil: Often restricted on weekdays but may be allowed on weekends and feast days.
- Refined or Rich Foods: The fast also encourages avoiding excessive indulgence and focusing on simpler foods.
Other Fasting Considerations
Beyond diet, Orthodox fasting encompasses spiritual practices like increased prayer, almsgiving, and reducing worldly distractions. This holistic approach aims to purify both body and soul.
Conclusion
For Orthodox Christians, dietary restrictions, particularly the exclusion of meat, dairy, and fish during specific times, are integral to the spiritual discipline of fasting. This ancient tradition, observed throughout much of the year, serves as a means to prioritize God and cultivate self-control. Fasting rules are applied with the guidance of a priest and adapted to individual needs, emphasizing humility and repentance over strict adherence to rules.
