When the Uspensky Post begins: the basic rules of compliance

Orthodox from year to year piously observe various holidays, including both long and short. About the time when the Assumption fast begins , and how to eat properly during it, you can learn from a special calendar that is in Orthodox churches. In it, the clergymen describe in detail the rules for observing this brief period.

History of the Assumption

In the first centuries of Christianity already recognized the Assumption Post. Another pope, the Holy Roman Leo I the Great (who was at the head of the church for 21 years - from 440 to 461) clearly indicated the dates when the Assumption Post begins. Even then he was on the list of the four most important Orthodox holidays.

But finally it was established only in 1166. It was marked by the celebration of the famous Council of Constantinople. At the same time, a holiday was chosen, to which this period is timed.

The beginning of the Assumption

Information, from what date begins the Assumption Post, you can remember once and for all, because, unlike many other Orthodox dates, it does not change. Fasting begins on August 14th. It is rather short and lasts only 2 weeks. It ends on the 27th of the same month. In 2016, the beginning and end of the fast are at the weekend. It's incredibly convenient, because it's easier to change your mode.

The name of this summer holiday appeared due to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin. Strictly speaking, it is to him that the fast is timed. The celebration falls on August 28 - the day after the period of restrictions. This is the only post that is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

The time when the Assumption fast begins is marked by the triumph of the Origin of the Honest Animal of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord. This celebration is accompanied by the procession and the consecration of various places. It is assumed that such activities will be able to prevent or eliminate diseases if you treat them with great faith.

The beginning of the fast falls on another great Orthodox holiday - the Honey Salvation. From this day on, observing church rules, people receive the blessing to eat honey.

Eating during a fast

A state of mind is most important when fasting. The priests say that it is necessary to devote as much time as possible to prayer, to behave diligently and serve to please God.

But nutrition is also extremely important. Moreover, this post is one of the 4 most strict, and the clerics equate it with the Great, as necessary, restrictions. That is why those who observe fasting are recommended to refuse meat and dairy products, as well as eggs.

But the list of allowed products is quite large, and contains:

• fruit,
• vegetables,
• Broths,
• Teas,
• Compotes,
• Gray bread,
• honey,
• Mushrooms,
• Cereals,
• Nuts.

During all the time when the Uspensky fast begins and ends, you can eat only the above products.

Detailed nutrition on days

There are restrictions on nutrition and on the days of the week. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, for example, those who keep fasting - this is the time when you need to adhere to raw food. On this day it is worth to be content only with fruits and vegetables, dried fruits and nuts, as well as honey. It is forbidden to use vegetable oil.

Tuesday and Thursday - the time of hot food, but the addition of oil is also prohibited.

Saturday and Sunday are the simplest days. At this time all of the above products are allowed with the addition of oil. Also allowed to drink wine.

A small relaxation and removal of restrictions is possible for:

• Pregnant women,
• Patients,
• Children.

In addition, the use of fish is permitted on the day of the Transfiguration of the Lord, which is celebrated on August 19.

However, nutritionists do not recommend strictly adhere to fasting for the first time. So you can only spoil your health without receiving spiritual cleansing. Priests also argue that with any health problems it is better to stick to the fasting not strictly and earnestly pray, because the spiritual restraint is more important than the bodily restraint. Proceeding from this, even on days when only raw food is allowed, you can eat hot food, and sometimes add oil. Of the main prohibited products still should be abandoned.

Additional restrictions during the post

August 14 begins the Assumption. Throughout this period, the church does not welcome the holding of any celebrations. And the wedding is on this list. It is recommended to devote this time to prayers, to take care of bodily and spiritual purification, and not indulge in amusements.

By the way, the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin is treated as an opportunity to get rid of the fear of death. According to the giving, the Virgin Mary knew in advance about the time of her transition to another world. Therefore, she decided to prepare for him with intense prayer and fasting. And this despite the fact that her whole life was a model of sacrifice.

The time when the Assumption fast begins is one of the most significant for the Orthodox. During this period the churchmen try to observe all traditions and restrictions connected with the holiday.