Revisiting the Tradition of Fasting: Should Fish Be Restricted During the Great Lent?

Revisiting the Tradition of Fasting: Should Fish Be Restricted During the Great Lent?

The Great Lent is a time of deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and self-discipline. The Syriac Orthodox Church, like many ancient Christian traditions, follows strict fasting guidelines, avoiding meat, dairy, and certain rich foods to cultivate a spirit of repentance and simplicity. However, an important question arises—Should fish be part of the restricted food list?

Fish: A Naturally Grown Food, A Gift from Creation

Unlike land animals, fish are creatures of the water, growing naturally with minimal human intervention. Even today, while fish farming has become common, the process remains closer to nature than other forms of livestock rearing. Wild-caught fish, in particular, thrive in natural waters, feeding on what creation provides, untouched by artificial hormones, antibiotics, or excessive human influence. In contrast, farm-raised fish often face ethical and nutritional concerns, as their diet is controlled, and in some cases, they are subjected to artificial growth enhancers.

This natural aspect of fish raises an important point—should it be categorized with meat and dairy in Lenten restrictions? Many foods require intensive human involvement, including vaccinations, artificial feeding, and even genetic modifications. Fish, however, remains one of the least altered food sources, making it a natural, healthy, and spiritually significant option for nourishment.

The Biblical and Theological Significance of Fish

From a theological perspective, fish holds a sacred place in Christian tradition. Many of Christ’s disciples, including Peter, Andrew, James, and John, were fishermen by trade. Their calling to be “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19) symbolizes the evangelistic mission of the Church. Fish also plays a central role in several of Christ’s miracles:

• The Feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21) and the Feeding of the 4,000 (Matthew 15:32-39) both involved fish alongside bread, demonstrating Christ’s divine provision.

• Jesus ate fish after His resurrection (Luke 24:41-43), proving His physical, resurrected body to the disciples.

• The miraculous catch of fish (John 21:6) after the resurrection served as a powerful reminder of Christ’s presence and blessings upon those who trust in Him.

Interestingly, in both feeding miracles, while Jesus commanded that the leftover bread be gathered, no mention is made of collecting leftover fish. This may indicate its perishability, but it also reminds us that fish was meant for immediate nourishment, not hoarding.

The Malankara Tradition and the Question of Fish Restriction

In the Malankara Syriac Orthodox tradition, fish has been included in the list of restricted foods during Lent, though there seems to be little theological explanation for this. Historically, Eastern Christian traditions have varied in their fasting practices: the Byzantine Orthodox Churches restrict fish except on special feasts, while the Coptic Church permits it in certain cases. The Syriac Orthodox Church, in its ancient tradition, does not explicitly forbid fish but has seen regional variations over time.

It is worth questioning whether the restriction of fish was an oversight rather than a well-founded theological principle. If Jesus Himself ate fish, included it in His miracles, and called fishermen as His closest disciples, should we reconsider its place in our Lenten fast?

A Call to Reassess and Restore a Balanced Tradition

The Great Lent is not about mere dietary restrictions but about spiritual discipline, gratitude, and humility. Fish is a nutritious, naturally available food that has sustained countless communities, especially coastal and river-dependent populations. It provides essential proteins and Omega-3 fatty acids, making it one of the healthiest sources of nourishment.

Moreover, we must recognize and appreciate the sacrifices of fishermen, who venture into dangerous waters to provide food for humanity. Their hard work is often overlooked, yet they contribute greatly to the well-being of many. Shouldn't our tradition honor their efforts rather than discourage the consumption of the very sustenance they bring?

A Thoughtful Reexamination of Lent Practices

Lent is a time of spiritual renewal, reflection, and deeper connection with God. It is also a time for studying our traditions and ensuring they align with both faith and wisdom. If the restriction of fish was not originally part of Syriac Orthodox discipline, then it is time to revisit and restore a more balanced approach—one that honors the spirit of fasting, respects our traditions, and acknowledges the realities of the natural world.

Perhaps by making fish an acceptable food during Lent, we can strengthen the observance of fasting while also promoting a healthy lifestyle and a deeper appreciation for the fishermen who risk their lives to bring food to our tables. After all, Jesus Himself embraced the significance of fish—shouldn’t we do the same?