Francesco Hasibra
Instagram
Why Orthodox Christians Fast on Wednesdays and Fridays
The video explains the historical and spiritual reasons behind the Orthodox practice of fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays. An ancient Christian text, the Didache, established this rule. Wednesday was chosen because it marks the day Judas Iscariot agreed to betray Christ, and Friday because it marks the day of the Crucifixion.
On these days, Orthodox Christians traditionally abstain from animal products, oil, and wine. The video also cites Saint John Chrysostom, who taught that abstaining from food has little value if a person does not also abstain from sin. The presentation connects the external discipline of fasting with its inner purpose, showing how the weekly cycle of Wednesday and Friday fasts keeps the betrayal and the cross before the faithful throughout the year.
Key moments
- An ancient Christian text gave a rule to fast on Wednesdays and Fridays.
- Wednesday is observed because Judas agreed to betray Christ on that day.
- Friday is observed because Christ was crucified on that day.
- Orthodox Christians avoid animal products, oil, and wine on these days.
- Saint John Chrysostom taught that fasting from food means little if we do not also fast from sin.