Ethiopian Orthodox Fasting Calendar
Discover the Ethiopian Orthodox fasting calendar, a vital element of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. This article delves into the background, significance, spiritual practices, and duration of each fast. For accurate fasting dates, visit the Ethiopian Calendar.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, one of the world’s oldest Christian churches, embraces fasting as a central element of spiritual life. For millions of its followers, fasting is much more than a dietary restriction; it is a profound spiritual discipline that fosters self-control, repentance, and a deeper connection with God.
Ethiopian Orthodox Calendar
Rooted in the teachings of the Church Fathers and the Holy Scriptures, the Ethiopian Orthodox fasting calendar is a significant part of the broader Ethiopian Orthodox Calendar, which organizes the spiritual rhythms of the faithful. This fasting calendar is a carefully structured program designed to subdue the flesh and elevate the spirit.
The Ethiopian Orthodox fasting calendar includes nearly 250 days of fasting each year, with about 180 days mandated for all believers. These fasts not only serve as a means of penance and purification but also commemorate pivotal events in the lives of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Apostles.
Beyond fasting, the Ethiopian Orthodox Calendar also marks the Church’s most important holidays, such as Genna (Christmas), Timket (Epiphany), and Fasika (Easter). It includes feast days dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Apostles, and other key figures of the faith. The Calendar of Saints is another vital element, celebrating the lives and legacies of saints recognized by the Church.
The calendar also highlights other significant dates in the liturgical year, helping to preserve the rich traditions and practices of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. These observances, combined with the fasting periods, reflect the deep spiritual devotion central to the life of the Church.
Abiy Tsom (Hudadi)
Abiy Tsom, also known as Hudadi or the Great Fast, is the most significant and solemn period of fasting in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. This fast, which parallels Lent in other Christian traditions, extends for 56 days. It begins on the Monday following the Sunday of Debre Zeyt (the Feast of Mount Tabor) and concludes on the Saturday before Fasika (Easter Sunday).
The biblical foundation for Abiy Tsom is deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments. It mirrors the 40 days and nights that Jesus Christ spent fasting in the wilderness, as recounted in the Gospels (Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13). This period of fasting is seen as a way for the faithful to follow Christ’s example of overcoming temptation and preparing for the fulfillment of His mission—culminating in His death and resurrection, which provide salvation for humanity.
During Abiy Tsom, adherents of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church strictly abstain from all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs. Additionally, they often consume only one meal per day, typically in the evening after the 9th hour (around 3 p.m.), following the ancient Christian practice of fasting until the hour of Christ’s death on the cross.
The spiritual practices associated with Abiy Tsom go beyond dietary restrictions. This period is marked by intense prayer, self-examination, repentance, and almsgiving. The fast serves as a time for believers to purify their bodies and souls, drawing closer to God through meditation on the passion and sacrifice of Christ. It is also an opportunity to demonstrate compassion and solidarity with the poor and the suffering, reflecting the teachings of Isaiah 58:6-7, which emphasize the importance of charity and justice in fasting.
The Great Fast is thus not merely a physical discipline but a profound spiritual journey. It allows the faithful to deepen their relationship with God, prepare for the celebration of the Resurrection, and renew their commitment to living according to the teachings of Christ.
Yekatit 13 – Miyazya 8 (Variable Date)
Sene Tsom (Tsome Hawariat)
Sene Tsom, also known as Tsome Hawariat or the Fast of the Apostles, is a significant observance in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, dedicated to honoring the Apostles who, according to tradition, fasted and prayed fervently after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. This fast begins on the Monday following the Feast of Pentecost and lasts between 10 to 40 days, depending on the date of Easter.
The reason for this fast is rooted in the Apostles’ commitment to their divine mission. After Pentecost, they prepared themselves through fasting and prayer to spread the Gospel and establish the early Church. Sene Tsom is a time for the faithful to mirror this dedication, seeking spiritual strength, guidance, and the courage to live out their faith boldly, just as the Apostles did.
The fast concludes on the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, which is fixed on the 5th of Hamle in the Ethiopian calendar. This period allows believers to deepen their connection with the Apostles’ mission, reflecting on their sacrifices and unwavering devotion to spreading the message of Christ.
Ginbot or Sene – Hamle 5 (Variable Start Date)
Filseta Tsom (Tsome Filseta)
Filseta Tsom, also known as Tsome Filseta or the Fast of the Assumption, is a 16-day period of fasting observed in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. It begins on the 1st of Nehasse and concludes on the 15th, culminating in the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
This fast is dedicated to honoring the Virgin Mary, who holds a revered place in Ethiopian Orthodox devotion. According to tradition, the fast commemorates the time leading up to Mary’s assumption into heaven, reflecting her purity and deep connection to God. During Filseta Tsom, the faithful adhere to strict dietary restrictions, abstaining from animal products while focusing on prayer and meditation. This period is also a time to contemplate the virtues of the Virgin Mary, particularly her humility, obedience, and unwavering faith, which serve as a model for believers.
Nehase 1 – Nehase 15 / 7 – 21 August
Nenewe Tsom (Tsome Nenewe)
Nenewe Tsom, also known as Tsome Nenewe or the Fast of Nineveh, is a three-day fast observed on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of the third week before the start of Lent. This fast commemorates the repentance of the people of Nineveh in response to the preaching of the Prophet Jonah, as recounted in the Book of Jonah.
The Fast of Nineveh is a time for believers to seek God’s mercy and forgiveness, mirroring the deep repentance shown by the Ninevites. During this fast, the faithful observe strict abstinence from food and drink until evening, reflecting on themes of repentance, humility, and divine compassion. It serves as a spiritual preparation for the more extended period of Lent, allowing believers to purify their hearts and renew their commitment to living in accordance with God’s will.
Tir 29 – Yekatit 1 (Variable Date)
Tsige Tsom (The Fast of the Holy Family)
Tsige Tsom, also known as the Fast of the Holy Family, is a 40-day spiritual observance held by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. It commemorates the flight of the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus—from Bethlehem to Egypt to escape the brutal decree of King Herod, who ordered the massacre of male infants. This journey symbolizes divine protection and the sacrifices undertaken for salvation.
While Tsige Tsom is considered an optional fast, it holds deep significance for many Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. Participants observe the fast by abstaining from animal products, adhering to a vegan diet as a means of spiritual purification and solidarity with the Holy Family’s trials. This period is marked by heightened devotion, with many believers engaging in additional prayers, acts of charity, and church attendance.
Even though the fast is not mandatory for all followers, its influence is widely felt in Ethiopian society. Most restaurants, cafes, and other establishments adapt their menus during this time, offering a variety of vegan dishes to accommodate those observing the fast. This cultural integration reflects the profound role Tsige Tsom plays in shaping the spiritual and communal life of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
By honoring this fast, participants not only commemorate a pivotal event in Christian history but also cultivate a deeper connection to their faith and the values it represents.
Meskerem 26 – Hidar 6 / October 6 – November 15
Gena Tsom / Nebiyat Tsom (Tsome Nebiyat)
Nebiyat Tsom, also known as Tsome Nebiyat or Gena Tsom, is a 40-day fast observed in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. It begins on the 16th of Hedar and concludes on Christmas Eve.
This fast commemorates the hardships endured by the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus—during their flight to Egypt to escape King Herod’s decree, as described in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:13-15). The fast is a time for believers to reflect on the trials faced by the Holy Family and to draw parallels with their own spiritual journeys.
During Nebiyat Tsom, the faithful abstain from all animal products and focus on prayer, meditation, and spiritual reflection. This period allows believers to contemplate the virtues of patience, endurance, and trust in God’s protection, as exemplified by the Holy Family during their difficult journey. The fast serves as a spiritual preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth, deepening the faithful’s connection to the sacred narrative of the Nativity.
Hedar 16 – Tahsas 28 / 25 November – 06 January
Tsome Dihinet
Tsome Dihinet is a regular fasting practice observed on Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the year by Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, except during the 50-day period following Easter (Fasika). These fasts hold deep spiritual significance, embodying religious discipline and devotion.
The Wednesday fast commemorates the betrayal of Jesus Christ by Judas Iscariot, while the Friday fast honors Christ’s crucifixion. During Tsome Dihinet, believers abstain from consuming animal products and often delay their first meal until after midday. The days are dedicated to prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth, emphasizing the virtues of humility, repentance, and a closer connection to God. This practice is a fundamental aspect of Ethiopian Orthodox spiritual life, reinforcing a continual remembrance of Christ’s passion and sacrifice.
The Gahads (Eves of Feasts)
In addition to regular fasting practices, the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar has special fasting days known as Gahads, which are the eves of major feasts. These days are marked by intensified fasting and prayer as believers prepare spiritually for the significance of the upcoming feast.
Key Gahads include:
- Gahad of Christmas: Observed on the eve of Christmas, this day marks the conclusion of the Fast of the Nativity. It is a time for deep reflection on the impending celebration of Christ’s birth.
- Gahad of Epiphany: Observed on the eve of Epiphany, this Gahad prepares believers for the feast celebrating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
On these eves, the faithful engage in more rigorous fasting, abstaining from food and focusing on prayer and spiritual preparation, ensuring that they approach the feast day with a pure heart and mind.
Tahsas 28 and Tir 10
The Practice of Fasting in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church
In the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, fasting is a deeply spiritual practice that transcends mere dietary restrictions. It involves the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—fostering a profound connection with God. During fasting periods, believers are encouraged to intensify their prayer life, participate in special church services, and engage in acts of charity, reflecting the holistic nature of fasting.
The Church traditionally prescribes that only one meal be consumed per day, usually in the evening, after the ninth hour (around 3 p.m.). This meal excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, and fats. Additionally, smoking and other indulgences are strictly prohibited during fasting periods, reinforcing the focus on spiritual discipline.
Fasting is viewed as a form of spiritual warfare, empowering believers to resist the temptations of the flesh and to cultivate virtues such as humility, patience, and love. By “chastising the body and bringing it under subjection,” as St. Paul advises (1 Corinthians 9:27), fasting allows the spirit to triumph over the desires of the flesh. This practice is integral to the Ethiopian Orthodox faith, serving as a means of purification and a pathway to greater spiritual growth and closer communion with God.
Exceptions and Relaxations in Ethiopian Orthodox Fasting
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church upholds strict fasting practices, but there are certain exceptions and relaxations. One notable exception is the 50-day period between Fasika (Easter) and Pentecost, known as the Feast of Feasts, during which fasting is not observed, allowing for a continuous celebration of Christ’s resurrection.
Additionally, if major feasts such as Genna (Christmas) or Timkat (Epiphany) fall on a Wednesday or Friday—days typically reserved for fasting—the fasting rules for those days are relaxed, permitting a full celebration of the feast.
Exceptions are also made for those with specific needs. Children, the elderly, the sick, and pregnant women may be exempt from fasting or may observe a modified fast based on their circumstances. However, such decisions are generally made in consultation with a spiritual father or priest, ensuring that the relaxation of the fast aligns with the individual’s spiritual well-being.
Fasting in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church is more than a dietary practice; it is a profound expression of faith and discipline. Through fasting, believers are invited to share in the sufferings of Christ, purify their hearts, and deepen their relationship with God. It is a holistic practice involving prayer, repentance, and acts of charity, all aimed at transforming the believer’s life and drawing them closer to the divine. The Church’s fasting calendar, with its built-in exceptions and relaxations, reflects a deep understanding of human needs while maintaining a strong commitment to spiritual growth.
You can use our calendar converter to convert the fasting dates here: https://www.ethiopiancalendar.net/converter