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In Orthodoxy it is also called Lent, since the post, established in honor of the Nativity of Christ and lasts 40 days — until the eve of the bright holiday.

According to the website "Calendar.ru", the Christmas fast, probably appeared at the very dawn of Christianity. At least in the historical sources it is mentioned since the 4th century. It is believed that this tradition has grown from a post on the eve of the feast of the Epiphany, celebrated since at least 3 century, and later divided into holidays of Christmas and Epiphany. Originally Christmas fast lasted for only seven days, however, in 1166 by the decision of the Patriarch Luke of Chrysovergis he became the forty-day Orthodoxy. Armenian Church this reform is not adopted and notes post within seven days.

The Church teaches that fasting is necessary so that on the feast of Christmas people can meet the Son of God with a pure heart, soul and body. As can be seen from this postulate, purify subject not only the body (abstinence from not suitable post products), but also the soul.

"Only he who believes that post only in abstinence from food. True fasting is the removal from evil, the curbing of the tongue, the deposition of anger, the taming of lust, the cessation of slander, lies and oaths of transgression," John Chrysostom wrote in his time.

As for food, the Orthodox Church prescribes to abstain from meat, eggs, milk and oil of animal origin during the Christmas fast. In addition, it is forbidden to consume vegetable oil on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Fish is allowed only on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as on great holidays, for example, on the day of the Introduction to the temple of the blessed virgin.

In the period from 2 to 6 January fasting increases: at this time you can not eat fish even on Saturday and Sunday.

In our days the post in full conformity with the Charter observes only the Ministers of the Church and very pious believers. For the majority of laypeople, as a rule, indulgences are allowed. If you plan to adhere to the rules of fasting, take into account the state of your health, consult with your doctor and ask for the blessing of the priest.

Fasting ends on the night of 6 to 7 January with the rise of the first star — the one that showed the Magi the way to the baby Jesus.

News source: www.vestiprim.ru