The beginning of the Assumption Fast (14/08)

The Dormition Fast was established before the great holidays of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Dormition of the Mother of God and lasts two weeks, starting on August 14. The custom has survived to this day since the ancient times of Christianity.

In the conversation of Leo the Great, spoken by him around 450, a clear indication was given of the Dormition Fast: «Church posts are located in the year so that each time has its own special law of abstinence. So for spring — spring fast in Pentecost, for summer — summer fast in Pentecost (Peter's fast), for autumn — autumn fast in the seventh month (Uspensky), for winter — winter (Christmas)».

Saint Simeon of Thessalonica writes that: «Lent in August (Assumption) was established in honor of the Mother of God's Word, who, having learned Her repose, as always labored and fasted for us, although, being holy and blameless, she had no need for fasting. So She especially prayed for us when she intended to move from the here to the hereafter, and when Her blessed soul had to unite with Her son through the Divine spirit. Therefore, we must fast and glorify Her, imitating Her life and awakening Her thereby to prayer for us. Some, however, say that this post was established on the occasion of two holidays, that is, the Transfiguration and the Assumption. And I also consider it necessary to remember both of these two holidays, one — as giving us sanctification, and the other — propitiation and intercession for us».

Dry eating is prescribed for the fasting period on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Tuesday, Thursday — hot food without oil. On Saturday and Sunday, food with vegetable oil is allowed.

On the day of the Transfiguration of the Lord (August 19), fish is allowed. Fish day in Assumption — if it falls on Wednesday or Friday.



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