What is Spiritual Fasting?

Spiritual Fasting in Orthodox Christianity

While dietary fasting (abstaining from certain foods) is a key part of Orthodox Lent, spiritual fasting is just as—if not more—important. The purpose of fasting isn’t just to change what we eat, but to transform our hearts and grow closer to God.

Key Aspects of Spiritual Fasting:

1. Increased Prayer

   • Lent is a time to deepen one's prayer life.
   • This includes:
     • Daily prayers (morning and evening)
     • Reading Psalms and Scripture (especially the Gospels)
     • Attending church services (Great Compline, Pre-Sanctified Liturgies, and Akathists)
     • The Jesus Prayer ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.")

2. Repentance & Confession

   • Lent is a time for self-examination and repentance.
   • Many Orthodox Christians go to Holy Confession to seek spiritual renewal.
   • The focus is on identifying and overcoming sin in daily life.

3. Almsgiving (Acts of Charity & Kindness)

   • Fasting should not just be about food—it should lead to acts of love.
   • This includes:
     • Helping the poor and needy.
     • Donating time, resources, or money to charity.
     • Being patient, forgiving, and kind to others.

4. Controlling the Passions (Self-Discipline)

   • Fasting is about mastering desires, not just food but all worldly attachments.
   • This includes:
     • Avoiding gossip, anger, and unnecessary talking.
     • Limiting entertainment (TV, social media, video games, etc.).
     • Being mindful of one’s thoughts and actions.

5. Reading Scripture & Spiritual Books

   • Lent is an opportunity to deepen one’s faith through spiritual reading.
   • Suggested readings:
     • The Bible, especially the Gospels and Psalms.
     • Writings of the Church Fathers.
     • Books on the lives of Saints.

6. Attending Church Services & Liturgical Worship

   • Great Lent is full of unique and powerful services, including:
     • Great Compline (long evening prayer services)
     • Liturgy of the Pre-Sanctified Gifts (special weekday Liturgy)
     • The Canon of St. Andrew of Crete (a penitential service)
     • Holy Week Services leading up to Pascha (Easter).

The Purpose of Spiritual Fasting

The goal is not just to follow rules but to:

• Grow in humility and dependence on God.
• Detach from earthly distractions and focus on the Kingdom of God.
• Strengthen self-discipline in all areas of life.
• Deepen love for God and neighbor.

Fasting without prayer and love is just a diet. True Orthodox fasting is about transforming the heart, not just changing what we eat.