Today, many churches have fasting and prayer down to a science. But was it always like that? Let’s turn to the Didache (Didache pdf below) to explore how early Christians approached fasting and prayer, and see how it stacks up against today’s practices.
📜 What’s the Didache and Why It Matters
1. The Didache
The Didache (pronounced "did-ah-kay"), which means "Teaching" in Greek, is also known as "The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles." It’s an ancient Christian text dating back to the late first or early second century. As one of the earliest writings outside the New Testament, the Didache gives us a fascinating look at the life and practices of the early Christian community. It was highly regarded by early church fathers, including Athanasius of Alexandria, and was widely used to instruct new converts to Christianity. It played a big role in shaping the early Church's moral and liturgical practices.
2. Why It Matters
For centuries, the Didache was lost to history until it was rediscovered in 1873 by Philotheos Bryennios, the Metropolitan of Nicomedia. Today, it’s part of the Apostolic Fathers' collection, which is a group of early Christian writings that offer valuable insights into the faith and practices of the first Christians.
The Didache is divided into several sections, beginning with "The Two Ways," which outlines fundamental Christian morals and ethics. This section was traditionally used to instruct catechumens—those preparing for baptism—on the basics of Christian life. The following sections cover the administration of key sacraments like baptism and the Eucharist, and offer practical guidance on community life, including hospitality and church leadership. The final chapter contains an apocalyptic vision of the end times, predating the Book of Revelation, and provides an early Christian perspective on the anticipated return of Christ.
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Buy Now →📖 The Didache
Section 1: The Two Ways
There are two ways: one of life and one of death; but a great difference exists between the them.
1. The Way of Life
1. The Way of Life
The way of life, then, is this:
- First, you shall love God who made you.
- Second, love your neighbor as yourself.
- And whatever you would not want done to you, do not do to another.
The First Commandment
The First Commandment
Of these sayings, the teaching is this:
Give to everyone who asks you, and do not demand it back, for the Father wants something from his own gifts to be given to all. Blessed is he who gives according to the commandment, for he is guiltless. Woe to him who receives; if one receives who has need, he is guiltless, but he who receives without having need shall pay the penalty, why he received and for what. And being in confinement, he shall be examined concerning the deeds he has done and shall not escape until he pays back the last penny. But also concerning this, it has been said, "Let your alms sweat in your hands until you know to whom you should give."
Bless those who curse you, pray for your enemies, and fast for those who persecute you. For what reward is there in loving only those who love you? Don’t even the Gentiles do the same? But love those who hate you, and you’ll have no enemies.
Abstain from fleshly and worldly lusts.
If someone strikes your right cheek, turn to him the other also, and you shall be perfect.
If someone compels you to go one mile, go with him two.
If someone takes away your cloak, give him your coat also.
If someone takes what is yours, don’t demand it back, for you can’t.
The Second Commandment
The Second Commandment
The second commandment of the teaching is this:
You shall not hate anyone; but some you shall reprove, for some you shall pray, and some you shall love more than your own life.
You shall not commit murder.
You shall not commit adultery.
You shall not corrupt boys.
You shall not be sexually immoral.
You shall not steal.
You shall not practice magic.
You shall not engage in sorcery.
You shall not abort a child or commit infanticide.
You shall not covet the things of your neighbor.
You shall not swear falsely.
You shall not bear false witness.
You shall not speak evil.
You shall not hold a grudge.
You shall not be double-minded nor double-tongued; for a double tongue is a deadly snare.
Your speech shall not be false nor empty, but fulfilled by deed.
You shall not be covetous, nor a plunderer, nor a hypocrite, nor ill-tempered, nor proud.
You shall not plot evil against your neighbor.
Other Sins Forbidden
Other Sins Forbidden
My child, flee from every evil thing, and from every likeness of it:
- Don’t be prone to anger, for anger leads to murder.
- Don’t be jealous, argumentative, or hot-tempered, for these things lead to murder.
- My child, don’t be lustful, for lust leads to sexual immorality.
- Don’t be foul-mouthed or high-eyed, for out of these things adulteries are engendered.
- My child, don’t be a diviner, since it leads to idolatry.
- Don’t be an enchanter, an astrologer, a purifier, or be willing to look at these things; for out of all these, idolatry is engendered.
- My child, don’t be a liar, since lying leads to theft.
- Don’t be greedy, nor a seeker of vain glory, for out of these things thefts are engendered.
- My child, don’t be a murmurer, since it leads to blasphemy.
- Don’t be self-willed, nor a thinker of evil thoughts, for out of these things blasphemies are engendered.
But be meek, since the meek shall inherit the earth. Be long-suffering, compassionate, innocent, quiet, and good, and tremble at the words you’ve heard. Don’t exalt yourself, nor give over-confidence to your soul. Your soul shall not be joined with the lofty, but with the righteous and the humble. Accept whatever happens to you as good, knowing that apart from God nothing comes to pass.
Various Precepts
Various Precepts
Confess your transgressions in church, and don’t go to prayer with an evil conscience. This is the Way of Life.
My child, remember night and day him who speaks the Word of God to you, and honor him as you do the Lord, for wherever the Lordship is spoken of, there is the Lord.
Seek out day by day the faces of the saints, that you may rest upon their words.
Don’t long for division, but rather bring those who contend to peace. Judge righteously, and don’t show favoritism when reproving for transgressions.
You shall not be undecided whether it shall be or not.
Don’t be eager to receive and reluctant to give.
If you have anything, through your hands you shall give ransom for your sins.
Don’t hesitate to give, nor murmur when you give; for you shall know who is the good Paymaster of the reward.
Don’t turn away from him who is in need, but share all things with your brother, and don’t say that they are your own, for if you are sharers in the imperishable, how much more in the perishable?
Don’t remove your hand from your son or from your daughter, but from their youth, you shall teach them the fear of God.
Don’t command in your bitterness your slave or maidservant, who hope in the same God, lest they cease to fear the God who is over both; for He comes not to call according to the outward appearance, but to those whom the Spirit has prepared.
And you slaves shall be subject to your masters as to a type of God, in modesty and fear.
You shall hate all hypocrisy and everything that isn’t pleasing to the Lord.
Don’t in any way forsake the commandments of the Lord, but keep what you have received, neither adding nor taking away.
2. The Way Of Death
2. The Way Of Death
And the way of death is this. First of all, it is evil and full of curses: murder, adultery, lust, promiscuity,theft, idolatry, magical arts, witchcraft, robbery, false testimony, hypocrisy, duplicity, treachery, pride,malice, stubbornness, greed, foul language, jealousy, arrogance, pride, and boasting.
Persecutors of the good, hating truth, loving a lie, not knowing a reward for righteousness, not cleaving to good nor to righteous judgment, watching not for that which is good but for that which is evil; from whom meekness and endurance are far, loving vanities, pursuing revenge, not pitying a poor man, not laboring for the afflicted, not knowing Him who made them, murderers of children, destroyers of the handiwork of God, turning away from Him who is in need, oppressing the afflicted, advocates of the rich, lawless judges of the poor, altogether sinful.
May you be delivered, my children, from all these things.
Section 2: Instruction for Catechumens
1. On Food
1. On Food
Concerning food, observe the traditions as best as you can; but do not eat meat sacrificed to idols, for it is the worship of dead gods.
2. Concerning Baptism
2. Concerning Baptism
Concerning baptism, baptize this way: Having first said all these things, baptize into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, in living water.
But if you have no living water, baptize into other water; and if you can’t do so in cold water, do so in warm. But if you have neither, pour out water three times upon the head into the name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit.
But before the baptism let the baptizer fast, and the baptized, and whatever others can; but you shall order the baptized to fast one or two days before.
3. Regarding Fasting and Prayer
3. Regarding Fasting and Prayer
Let not your fasts be with the hypocrites, for they fast on the second and fifth day of the week; but fast on the fourth day and the Preparation (Friday).
Neither pray as the hypocrites, but as the Lord commanded in His Gospel:
"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us our debt as we also forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one; for yours is the power and the glory forever."
Pray this three times each day.
4. On Thanksgiving (Eucharist)
4. On Thanksgiving (Eucharist)
Now concerning the Thanksgiving (Eucharist), give thanks this way:
First, concerning the cup:
"We thank you, our Father, for the holy vine of David your servant, which you made known to us through Jesus your servant. To you be the glory forever."
And concerning the broken bread:
"We thank you, our Father, for the life and knowledge which you made known to us through Jesus your servant. To you be the glory forever.
Even as this broken bread was scattered over the hills, and was gathered together and became one, so let your church be gathered together from the ends of the earth into your kingdom; for yours is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ forever."
But let no one eat or drink of your Thanksgiving (Eucharist) unless they have been baptized into the name of the Lord; for concerning this also the Lord has said, "Do not give that which is holy to the dogs."
5. Concerning Prayers After Communion
5. Concerning Prayers After Communion
And after you are filled, give thanks this way:
"We thank you, holy Father, for your holy name which you caused to dwell in our hearts, and for the knowledge and faith and immortality, which you made known to us through Jesus your servant. To you be the glory forever.
You, Master almighty, created all things for your name's sake; you gave food and drink to men for enjoyment, that they might give thanks to you; but to us you freely gave spiritual food and drink and life eternal through your servant.
Before all things we thank you that you are mighty. To you be the glory forever.
Remember, Lord, your church, to deliver it from all evil and to make it perfect in your love; and gather it from the four winds, sanctified for your kingdom which you have prepared for it. For yours is the power and the glory forever.
Let grace come, and let this world pass away. Hosanna to the God of David! If anyone is holy, let him come; if anyone is not so, let him repent. Mar'anatha. Amen."
But permit the prophets to make Thanksgiving as much as they desire.
6. Regarding Teachers
6. Regarding Teachers
Whoever comes and teaches you all these things that have been said before, receive him.
But if the teacher turns and teaches another doctrine to the destruction of this, don’t listen to him; but if he teaches so as to increase righteousness and the knowledge of the Lord, receive him as the Lord.
Section 3: Life in the Community
1. Apostles and Prophets
1. Apostles and Prophets
Concerning the apostles and prophets, act according to the decree of the Gospel:
Let every apostle who comes to you be received as the Lord. But he shall not remain more than one day; or if there is a need, a second as well; but if he remains three days, he is a false prophet. And when the apostle goes away, let him take nothing but bread until he lodges; if he asks for money, he is a false prophet.
Do not test or judge any prophet who speaks in the Spirit; for every sin shall be forgiven, but this sin shall not be forgiven. But not everyone who speaks in the Spirit is a prophet, but only he who follows the ways of the Lord. Therefore from their behavior shall the false prophet and the true prophet be known.
Any prophet who orders a meal in the Spirit and does not eat it is a false prophet.
Every prophet who teaches the truth but does not do what he teaches is a false prophet.
Every prophet approved and found true, if he does anything as an outward mystery typical of the church, and yet does not teach others to do what he himself does, shall not be judged before you; for with God he has his judgment; for so did also the ancient prophets.
But whoever says in the Spirit, "Give me money," or something else, you shall not listen to him; but if he tells you to give for others' sake who are in need, let no one judge him.
2. Hospitality to Travelers
2. Hospitality to Travelers
Let everyone who comes in the name of the Lord be received, but then, when you have tested him, you shall know him, for you shall have understanding right and left.
If he who comes is a wayfarer, assist him as much as you are able; but he shall not remain with you more than two or three days unless there is necessity.
But if he wants to settle with you, being a craftsman, let him work and eat; but if he has no trade, according to your understanding, see to it that as a Christian he shall not live with you idle.
But if he wills not to do, he is a Christ-monger. Watch that you keep away from such.
3. Support of Prophets
3. Support of Prophets
Every true prophet who wants to settle among you is worthy of his food.
So also, a true teacher is himself worthy, as the workman, of his food.
Every first-fruit, therefore, of the products of wine-press and threshing floor, of oxen and sheep, you shall take and give as the first-fruit to the prophets, for they are your high priests.
But if you have not a prophet, give it to the poor.
If you make a batch of dough, take the first-fruit and give according to the commandment.
So also, when you open a jar of wine or of oil, take the first-fruit and give it to the prophets.
And of money and clothing and every possession, take the first-fruit, as it seems good to you, and give according to the commandment.
4. Christian Assembly on the Lord's Day
4. Christian Assembly on the Lord's Day
Every Lord's day gather yourselves together, and break bread, and give thanksgiving after having confessed your transgressions, that your sacrifice may be pure.
Let no one who is at odds with his fellow come together with you, until they be reconciled, that your sacrifice may not be profaned. For this is that which was spoken by the Lord:
"In every place and time offer to me a pure sacrifice; for I am a great King," says the Lord, "and my name is wonderful among the nations."
5. Bishops and Deacons; Christian Reproof
5. Bishops and Deacons; Christian Reproof
Appoint for yourselves bishops and deacons worthy of the Lord, men who are meek and not lovers of money, and truthful and proven; for they also render to you the service of prophets and teachers.
Do not despise them, for they are your honorable men, along with the prophets and teachers.
And reprove one another, not in anger but in peace, as you have it in the Gospel; but to anyone who acts wrongly against another, let no one speak, nor let him hear anything from you until he repents.
But your prayers, alms, and all your deeds so do, as you have it in the Gospel of our Lord.
6. Watchfulness; The Coming of the Lord
6. Watchfulness; The Coming of the Lord
Watch for your life's sake. Let not your lamps be quenched, nor your loins unloosed, but be ready, for you don’t know the hour in which our Lord comes.
But be frequently gathered together, seeking the things which are profitable for your souls; for the whole time of your faith shall not profit you if you are not made perfect in the last time.
For in the last days, false prophets and corrupters shall be multiplied, and the sheep shall be turned into wolves, and love shall be turned into hate;
For when lawlessness increases, they shall hate and persecute and betray one another, and then shall appear the world-deceiver as the Son of God, and shall do signs and wonders, and the earth shall be delivered into his hands, and he shall do unlawful things which have never happened since the beginning of the world.
Then all created mankind shall come to the fire of trial, and many shall be offended and perish; but those who endure in their faith shall be saved from under the curse itself.
And then shall appear the signs of the truth; first, the sign of an out-spreading in heaven; then the sign of the sound of the trumpet; and the third, the resurrection of the dead;
Yet not of all, but as it was said, "The Lord shall come, and all his saints with him."
Then shall the world see the Lord coming upon the clouds of heaven.
✨ Early Christians Practices vs. Modern
1. On Fasting
1. On Fasting
Early Christians Practice
Early Christians were very specific about when they fasted. The Didache tells us they fasted on Wednesdays and Fridays. They did this to set themselves apart from the hypocrites, who fasted on Mondays and Thursdays.
Key Differences with Today
Today, fasting practices vary widely among Christians, and the days of fasting aren’t as strictly observed. Some traditions still hold to specific days, like Orthodox Christians who fast on Wednesdays and Fridays, while others may fast during Lent or other specific times of the year.
Take Away
The early Christians’ approach to fasting was about distinguishing themselves from others and maintaining a routine that focused on their relationship with God. Today, while the specifics may have changed, the heart of fasting remains the same: a spiritual discipline that draws believers closer to God.
Learn more about The Fasts →
2. On Prayers
2. On Prayers
Early Christians Practice
Prayer, according to the Didache, was also structured. Christians were encouraged to pray the Lord's Prayer three times a day. This regularity in prayer was a way to stay connected with God throughout the day.
Key Differences with Today
Nowadays, prayer practices are more flexible. While some Christians still follow a structured prayer routine, many incorporate prayer into their daily lives in a more spontaneous manner, praying when they feel led or need guidance.
Take Away
The early Christians valued consistency and regularity in prayer, seeing it as vital to their spiritual health. While modern practices may be more varied, the importance of staying connected with God through prayer remains central to Christian life.
Check out these prayers for the fast →
Although the Didache wasn’t included in the New Testament canon, its teachings have had a lasting impact on Christian thought and practice. It distills the core messages of the Gospel into accessible and practical instructions, making it a valuable resource for understanding the foundational beliefs and practices of the early Church. Even today, the Didache remains a relevant and useful guide for Christian living, offering timeless wisdom that continues to inspire and instruct believers on their spiritual journey.
🔔 Final Take Away
The Didache offers a fascinating look at how early Christians approached the essential aspects of their faith. While some practices have evolved, the core principles of fasting and prayer as means of deepening one's relationship with God continue to be relevant. Whether we follow the old ways or adapt them to our lives today, the Didache reminds us that these spiritual disciplines have been, and always will be, central to a life of faith.
If you want to find out more about the Didache, check out this great Youtube video by Patristix
Frequently Asked Questions
The Didache, although highly respected in early Christian communities, was not included in the canonical New Testament. This decision was made because, while the Didache offers valuable insights into early Christian practices and teachings, it was viewed more as a practical guide or church manual rather than inspired scripture. The books that were included in the New Testament were chosen for their apostolic authorship and doctrinal content, which the Didache did not meet to the same extent.
The author of the Didache remains unknown. It's generally believed to be a compilation of teachings from various sources within the early Christian community, rather than the work of a single individual. The title "The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles" suggests that it was intended to convey the teachings that the apostles passed down to early Christians, even if the apostles themselves were not the direct authors.
The Didache was discovered in 1873 by Philotheos Bryennios, a Greek Orthodox bishop and scholar, in a manuscript at the Jerusalem Monastery of the Most Holy Sepulchre in Istanbul (formerly Constantinople). This manuscript contained several early Christian texts, including the Didache, which had been lost to history for centuries before its rediscovery.
The Didache is believed to have been written in the late first century or early second century. This dating makes it one of the earliest known Christian documents outside of the New Testament, providing a snapshot of Christian beliefs and practices during a formative period of the Church.
The word "Didache" comes from the Greek word "Διδαχή," which means "Teaching." The full title, "The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles," reflects its role as an instructional guide for early Christians, offering practical advice on living a life in accordance with Christian principles.
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