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Ethiopian Orthodox
The Ethiopian Orthodox Great Lent, known as Hudade or Abye Tsome ("the Great Fast"), is 55 days long — longer than any other Christian tradition's Lenten fast. During this period, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians follow a strict vegan fast, eating only once a day after 3 PM (with exceptions on Saturdays and Sundays when a meal after the morning service is permitted).
No meat, dairy, eggs, or other animal products are consumed. It usually falls on or around 55 days before Fasika.
It is especially important in Ethiopian Orthodox traditions. Explore pilgrimage holidays — browse options on Eden.
At a glance
- Type
- fasting period
- Date type
- Moveable (changes with Easter)
- Regions
- Ethiopia
- Themes
- Penitence & Fasting, Resurrection
- Liturgical colour
- Purple
Common questions
Great Lent is observed on 55 days before Fasika. Moveable feasts shift each year; fixed feasts stay on the same calendar date.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Great Lent, known as Hudade or Abye Tsome ("the Great Fast"), is 55 days long — longer than any other Christian tradition's Lenten fast. During this period, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians follow a strict vegan fast, eating only once a day after 3 PM (with exceptions on Saturdays and Sundays when a meal after the morning service is permitted). No meat, dairy, eggs, or other an
It is associated with Ethiopian Orthodox. It falls in the Lent season of the liturgical year.
