I used to wonder why shellfish—like shrimp or lobster—was allowed on fast days, while other meats, eggs, and dairy were off-limits. Wasn’t it still “meat” in a sense? If you’ve ever stood in front of a buffet table, wondering how shrimp made it into an Orthodox Christian fast, stick around. We’re diving into the Old Testament law, the teaching of Jesus, and centuries of tradition to get clarity on why shellfish is an exception.

Fasting in Orthodox Christianity is a journey—one that’s not just about questions of food but also about growing closer to God and living out a deeper commitment to our fellow man.
In this post, we’ll uncover:
- The historical and biblical context (including moral laws and ceremonial laws).
- Why the Old Testament law about unclean animals doesn’t strictly apply to us in the new testament era.
- How shellfish fits into the Orthodox Fast and how it helps us avoid a slippery slope into treating fasting as a mere diet.
- Practical tips to keep the spirit of the fast alive without turning it into a burden for you or your family.
🦐 Why Shellfish? Understanding the Basics
1. The Historical Setting
We often hear about dietary laws in the nation of israel—think “don’t eat pork” or “stay away from certain swarming things.” These laws were part of the law of moses handed down in the old testament law. But here’s a fun fact: while shellfish (like crab or shrimp) was generally considered among unclean animals for the jewish people, Orthodox Christians historically placed shellfish in a separate category when it comes to fasting disciplines.
Key Points Under This Perspective (H4)
- Shellfish in Ancient Times
- During the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah (Daniel 1:1) and on through the time of king Nebuchadnezzar, the people of israel upheld mosaic law to maintain their identity.
- Laws about animal sacrifices, unclean foods, and kinds of animals were clearly outlined in books like Leviticus. These included the rock badger, the little owl, and various unclean meats—indicating a strong separation between holy people and what was considered impure.
- Cultural Adaptations
- Over centuries, certain fasting practices developed differently, especially in the early church under the new covenant.
- By the coming of christ, the focus shifted from strict ceremonial laws to the teaching of jesus on deeper spiritual truths, like love for our fellow man and transformation of the heart into a new man in christ jesus.

2. Old Testament Law vs. New Covenant
The law of moses contained moral laws (like the ten commandments) and civil law for the people of israel, plus food laws about unclean meats and swarming creatures that scurry on the ground (like the moving thing mentioned in Leviticus).
When Jesus began His ministry, He proclaimed the kingdom of God and a shift toward a new covenant. This transition is famously shown in the Book of Acts with Peter’s vision of the great sheet (sometimes called a large sheet) lowered from heaven:
“And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners... Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.” (Acts 10:11-12)
The voice tells Peter to “kill and eat,” even though these were unclean animals by old testament law. Peter refuses the unclean foods a second time, but the voice insists, “What god hath cleansed, that call not thou common.” (Acts 10:15). This happened the next day, leading Peter to share the gospel with Gentiles for the larger point of bringing them into the holy people of God.

3. The Teaching of Jesus & The Early Church
The holy scriptures show us a bigger spiritual reality:
- Jesus emphasized internal purity over external rules. He taught that true holiness is about love and obedience to the word of God, not just external compliance with food laws.
- Apostle paul addresses this in Romans 14:3-4, advising believers not to let “one pass judgment” on them over unclean foods or how they eat since each serves their own master—Christ.
- The early Christians recognized that the old covenant dietary laws were signposts pointing to a deeper moral and spiritual reality. In Christ, we have a new man, called to love and unity.
4. So... Shellfish?
In Orthodox fasting tradition, shellfish is not seen as the same category as “meat and dairy.” The rationale is often cultural and practical:
- It’s a Humble Food
- Historically, shellfish was considered “food of the poor.” It wasn’t celebrated like fine meats. Thus, it didn’t carry the same luxurious connotation.
- Avoiding Over-Restriction
- The Church, guided by the holy spirit, recognized that extremes could be a slippery slope. By allowing shellfish, believers stay nourished without turning the fast into an impossible challenge—especially important for the weak person.
- Spiritual Focus
- Fasting is about purifying our hearts (the seat of eternal power), not just about whether a living thing has a backbone. If we become too obsessed with “dead fish vs. live fish,” “shellfish vs. beef,” we could miss the glory of God and fail to love our fellow man.

🦞 Common Types of Shellfish & Practical Tips
While the Church permits shellfish during fasting seasons, many of us are uncertain about which living creatures from the water of the seas count as “shellfish.” Below is a brief rundown of some of the most easily found options—locally or online—along with pros, cons, and handy tips to ensure you get the best quality.
1. Shrimp
1. Shrimp
Pros:
- Widely available, easy to cook in various ways.
- High in protein, low in calories.
Cons:
- Overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Some worry about health risks related to farming practices—look for reputable sources.
Buying Tips:
- Look for shrimp with a firm texture and a fresh, mild smell.
- If buying frozen, check for minimal ice crystals (freezer burn).
Storage:
Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below; use within 1-2 days if fresh.
2. Lobster
2. Lobster
Pros:
- Considered a treat—flavorful, rich taste.
- Good source of lean protein and essential minerals.
Cons:
More expensive than most shellfish.
Can be tricky to cook correctly.
Buying Tips:
If buying live, look for active movement, especially the tail.
Frozen is fine, but ensure packaging is intact and no strong odor.
Storage:
Live lobsters should be cooked the same day.
Cooked meat can be frozen for later use in soups or salads.
3. Crab
3. Crab
Pros:
Distinct sweet flavor; works great in soups, salads, or steamed.
High in protein and minerals like zinc.
Cons:
Shelling can be time-consuming.
Certain crab varieties can be costly.
Buying Tips:
For fresh crabs, look for a mild sea smell.
Check if any additives (like sodium tripolyphosphate) were used in processed crab meat.
Storage:
Eat fresh crab within a day or two, or freeze promptly.
Keep cooked crab sealed in airtight containers.
4. Mussels & Clams
4. Mussels & Clams
Pros:
Often affordable, easy to steam with minimal preparation.
Good source of iron and B-vitamins.
Cons:
Must be thoroughly cleaned to remove sand or grit.
Spoilage can lead to health risks if not handled properly.
Buying Tips:
Shells should be closed or close when tapped—avoid any with cracked shells.
Smell should be fresh and briny.
Storage:
Keep in a breathable container or mesh bag in the fridge, covered with a damp cloth.
Discard any that don’t open after cooking.
5. Oysters & Scallops
5. Oysters & Scallops
Pros:
- Unique, briny flavors; considered a delicacy.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and minerals.
Cons:
Texture might not appeal to everyone.
Can be pricey, especially fresh oysters.
Buying Tips:
For oysters, shells should be closed tightly.
Scallops should look plump and smell mildly sweet, not fishy.
Storage:
Keep scallops cold on ice; consume quickly.
Live oysters can be stored cup-side down to retain moisture.
🦑 Shellfish in Light of the Larger Spiritual Goal
1. Keeping the Fast’s True Purpose
- Growing in Prayer: Use your fast to schedule more time for prayer or reading from a digital bible or the holy scriptures.
- Serving Others: Volunteer or help a neighbor. Showing mercy is the teaching of jesus in action.
2. Practical Tips for the Family
- Easy Shellfish Recipes: Think simple soups or stir-fries, focusing on vegetables and grains (kinds of seed). This can be an opportunity to introduce your family to new flavors without drifting from the spiritual dimension of fasting.
- Mindful Eating: Even if shellfish is permitted, remember not to overindulge. Gluttony undermines the fast’s purpose—to seek the kingdom of god and the glory of god.
3. Cultural & Historical Insights
- From the time of the nation of israel to modern Orthodoxy, shellfish has played varied roles. In some places, it was more accessible and cheaper than livestock—making it a less “luxurious” choice.
- Health risks can come with any food if consumed unwisely. Always be moderate and thoughtful. We fast to focus on Christ and not to test our bodies beyond reason.

🥘 Common Misconceptions
“Doesn’t the Bible forbid shellfish?”
Yes, in the old testament law for the jewish people, anything in the water of the seas that lacked fins and scales—like shrimp or lobster—was considered unclean. But with the coming of christ, the new covenant reorients us to spiritual purity over external rules.
“Is Shellfish Meat?”
While biologically it’s an animal, the Church has historically treated certain living creatures (like insects in some traditions) differently than land animals (beast of the earth, birds of the air, etc.). Think of it less as a civil law distinction and more as a functional one.
“Is This a Slippery Slope to Breaking the Fast?”
It could be if you only focus on the legalities. The larger point is to transform our hearts, practice humility, and approach the fast as part of god’s word shaping our lives.
🍤 Final Take Away
Shellfish is permitted on fasting days in Orthodoxy primarily because of long-held tradition, practical nourishment considerations, and the shift from mosaic law to the new covenant. Yet the real essence of the fast is spiritual—to draw near to christ jesus and love one another. If adding shrimp to your fasting menu helps you keep your resolve while focusing on prayer and humility, then go for it. Just remember that the fast is more about the holy spirit transforming our hearts than strictly about what’s on our plate.
What are your thoughts? Share a recipe or a reflection in the comments, or send me a quick note via email communications—just kidding, I don’t send spam or break any privacy policy rules! Let’s keep encouraging each other as we seek the glory of god in our fasting journey.
(Disclaimer: No death penalty for mixing up your fasting rules—just keep growing in grace!)

“Heaven and earth pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
(Remember, the fast is about the word of god and our transformation in Him.)
P.S. Want more on this topic? Check out digital bible apps, references to Daniel’s diet in the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king (Daniel 1:1), or explore how king Nebuchadnezzar eventually recognized God’s eternal power. These stories remind us that even from the time of the animal sacrifices, God’s plan was always about forming a holy people prepared to worship Him in spirit and truth.
We’re all on this journey together, seeking the kingdom of god and building each other up as part of god in the Body of Christ.
Want to learn more on the subject?
Here is a great article we recommend you read on the topic:
Why is Meat Excluded from the Orthodox Christian Diet during Fasting? A Religious and Medical Approach, by the National Library of Medicine.
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