Nineveh Fast / Fast of the Ninevites
Also called: Ba'uta d'Ninwe (Syriac), Rogation of the Ninevites
3 weeks and 3 days before Great Lent (Monday – Wednesday)
A unique three-day fast observed before Lent, recalling the fast of the city of Nineveh (Jonah 3) as a model of repentance and God's mercy. This is observed primarily in the Syriac and Assyrian Christian traditions and has a distinct liturgy.
It is not found in Greek or Roman Catholic practice (which has no analogous fast before Lent), making it one of the most distinctive features of Eastern/Oriental Christian fasting practice. It usually falls on or around 3 weeks and 3 days before Great Lent (Monday – Wednesday).
It is especially important in Syriac Orthodox, Catholic, Coptic Orthodox, Ethiopian Orthodox traditions. Explore mission trips — browse options on Eden.
At a glance
- Type
- fasting period
- Date type
- Moveable (changes with Easter)
- Regions
- Middle East, Ethiopia
- Themes
- Penitence & Fasting
- Liturgical colour
- Purple