In this brief guide, we will address the query, “why can’t you eat meat on Fridays?” We will also discuss what is Lent, and what is the history that causes catholic people to avoid meat these days.
Why can’t you eat meat on Fridays?
Catholic people tend to avoid eating meat on Fridays to emulate the sacrifice that Jesus made on Good Friday, where his flesh was sacrificed to save humanity. This eating pattern usually takes place during Lent, but some can continue with it the whole year.
Also, if you belong to the Orthodox Christian community, there are some other restrictions, like
- Fasting until sundown.
- Abstain from sexual relations.
- Do not eat meat from mammals.
But why meat? Well, in ancient times meat was known as a celebratory food, so, naturally, it was chosen as a sacrifice in memory of Jesus dying on the cross. Catholic people cannot eat the meat of mammals and poultry, but only flesh products are forbidden. Dairy products and eggs can be eaten without any trouble.
It is believed in these religions that abstinence is a form of penance, which is thought to help the sinner turn back to God.
All religions and beliefs should be respected even if their principles and restrictions sound odd to us, it is better to learn about the topic.
What is Lent?
Lent occurs annually as a way to reflect on our behavior.
During Lent, we are expected to live simpler, which means we need to say goodbye to those unnecessary things and habits we have. This period lasts for 40 days, and it ends before Easter.
The Lent period starts on Ash Wednesday, from this day until Easter people need to reflect on their habits and attitudes while also fasting from food and festivities.
Why does Lent last 40 days?
In the Jewish-Christian sculpture, several important events took place in 40 days, such as:
- In the Genesis book, the flood used to destroy the Earth was brought by 40 days.
- The Hebrews walked for 40 days before finding the promised land.
- Moses fasted for 40 days before receiving the ten commandments.
- To prepare for his sacrifice, Jesus spent 40 days in the desert constantly tempted to abandon his faith.
You will find that during this period of the year, the churches are invaded with the color purple. Purple is used because it is associated with pain and suffering and also with royalty, both associated with Christ’s passion and resurrection.
What can you eat during Lent?
As we have already discussed, meat from mammals and poultry should be avoided during this 40-period day, but what is it allowed for you to eat?
Well, let me tell you that plenty of things are allowed during this period, it is only flesh meat that is forbidden. If you are worried about your protein source, you can eat any type of dairy product you want, also eggs are allowed.
There are no restrictions when it comes to fish and seafood, so this is the time to prepare your favorite cocktail. I will share with you some of my favorite recipes to prepare during this period of the year
Lent is also the perfect period to prepare those vegan recipes you once saved, not being allowed to eat flesh meat should not be an excuse to eat boring dishes. Some of the preferred recipes for Lent time are:
What do other religions think about meat?
We certainly live in a very diverse world, so we can not expect all religions to follow the same principles. Some might think that certain beliefs can be very restrictive but they need to be respected as well.
So, let’s go with some of the statements about meat by various religions. First, Hindus do not eat beef, in their religion, cows are considered sacred animals, so they are not allowed to eat them.
Muslims do not eat pork, the Holy Quran explicitly declared that pork is considered to be haram, which is not allowed to eat. When it comes to Buddhists, we find that they carry a vegetarian diet, because they respect plants.
You can get further guidance on this subject here.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we have addressed the query, “why can’t you eat meat on Fridays?” We have also discussed what is the history of this habit and other queries related to the subject at hand.
Hope you found this blog useful. If you have any questions, please let us know.
Citations
https://www.eatthis.com/lent-friendly-recipes/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/holydays/lent_1.shtml
