Fasting, according to the Christian tradition, is one of the means that allow believers to spiritually improve themselves on the path to achieving the "joy of Heaven." To refrain from accepting certain types of food, the Orthodox are usually supposed to commemorate some significant events in the history of salvation. The Nativity Fast is no exception. It is timed, as can be judged by its name, to the date of the birth of the Savior.
So when does the Nativity Fast start? According to church traditions, believing Christians should refrain from eating certain types of food for 40 days before the celebration of Christmas. The Orthodox Church celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, as you know, on January 7 in a new style. Accordingly, it will not be difficult to calculate the start time of the post.
Exact date
Thus, the beginning of the Nativity Fast, according to tradition, falls on November 28, according to the new style. This day, according to the canons of the Orthodox Church, is also dedicated to Saint Philip. Therefore, the Nativity Fast is sometimes also called Filippov, or in the common people - Fillipovka.
History of tradition
As the researchers found out, the Nativity Fast was accepted for observance back in the days of early Christianity - in the fourth century A. D. e. Until 1166, Christians did not have to fast for too long before celebrating the birth of the Savior - only 7 days. But later this period was increased to forty days. The decision to extend the Nativity Fast was made by the Patriarch of Constantinople Luke Chrysoverg.
How to fast
So, when the Nativity Fast begins, we found out. By tradition, the first day of its observance is November 28. But what is the right way for a believing Christian to fast during this period?
Conventionally, the Nativity Fast (including in 2017) can be divided into three main periods. For the first three weeks, until December 19, the church charter does not imply too strict abstinence. On weekends during this period, as well as on Thursday and Tuesday, secular Orthodox Christians are allowed to eat fish. Also on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can eat hot dishes with vegetable oil.
The Nativity Fast is getting stricter over the next two weeks. Believers are allowed to eat fish only on weekends. And in the last five days before the celebration of Christmas, the most difficult and strict period of fasting begins. At this time, Orthodox Christians can mainly eat only plant foods. Butter and fish are prohibited in the last days before Christmas.
On Christmas Eve, that is, January 6, believers cannot eat until the first star. After she is seen in the night sky, it is allowed to eat sochivo - boiled rice with raisins or any other sweet porridge.
