The Story Behind Eating Fish on Friday

The practice of eating fish on Fridays originates from the early Christian custom of fasting and abstinence. In Christian theology, Friday holds special significance as the day of the week when Jesus Christ was crucified. As a way to commemorate this solemn event, early Christians adopted the practice of fasting on Fridays.

However, fasting did not necessarily mean a complete abstention from food. Instead, it often involved abstaining from specific types of food, particularly meat, which was seen as a celebratory or indulgent meal. Abstaining from meat was considered an act of penance and reflection, a way to honour the suffering of Christ. Fish, on the other hand, was considered a more humble and acceptable alternative.

Why fish?

The distinction between meat and fish has to do with how early Christians defined "meat." The Church viewed the flesh of warm-blooded land animals — such as beef, pork, and poultry — as meat, which was associated with feasting and luxury. Fish, however, being cold-blooded and living in water, did not fall under this category and was thus allowed.

Fish also had symbolic resonance in Christian scripture. In the New Testament, Jesus is often connected with fish, from the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 with loaves and fish to calling his disciples to be "fishers of men." These biblical references further reinforced the spiritual significance of fish.

Additionally, fish was often more readily available and affordable in coastal and river communities, making it a practical and accessible alternative to meat on days of abstinence.

By the Middle Ages, the practice of abstaining from meat on Fridays had become a formalised part of Catholic Church law. The abstention was applied to all Fridays of the year, not just during the season of Lent, the 40 days leading up to Easter. Abstinence from meat on Fridays was considered a way to practice discipline and humility.

In many parts of Europe, especially in coastal regions, this gave a significant boost to the fishing industry. Fishing became a vital part of the economy, with fish, especially preserved fish like salted cod, becoming a staple food. Church rules around fasting and abstinence not only shaped religious practices but also had lasting economic impacts, encouraging the growth of the fish trade and contributing to the livelihoods of fishing communities.

It's also worth noting that in the medieval period, fasting and abstinence were more comprehensive than just avoiding meat. On certain days, including Fridays and during Lent, Christians were also required to abstain from other animal products like dairy and eggs, and sometimes even alcohol. These strict rules emphasised the penitential nature of fasting as a form of spiritual discipline and self-denial.

During the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, many Protestant groups rejected the Catholic Church's emphasis on fasting and abstinence, seeing it as an unnecessary and overly ritualistic practice. As a result, the tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays diminished in many Protestant regions. However, some Protestant denominations, such as Anglicans and Lutherans, maintained their forms of fasting or abstinence, though usually with less rigid rules.

In predominantly Catholic countries, the practice continued to flourish. Catholic law still required abstinence from meat on Fridays, making fish a regular part of the diet in many parts of Europe and the wider Christian world.

The Roman Catholic Church significantly relaxed its fasting and abstinence rules in the 20th century. After the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), the Church made abstaining from meat on all Fridays optional, except during Lent. Catholics were still encouraged to perform an act of penance on Fridays, but this penance could take different forms, not necessarily abstaining from meat.

Despite the relaxation of these rules, many Catholics still choose to observe the tradition of eating fish on Fridays, particularly during Lent, a time of reflection and preparation for Easter.

The tradition of eating fish on Fridays not only influenced religious practices but also had broader economic and cultural impacts. The fishing industry, particularly in countries like Spain, Portugal, and parts of the UK, thrived due to the demand for fish on fasting days. Fish markets and trade routes developed, especially for preserved fish like salted cod, which could be transported over long distances.

In the UK, the tradition of "Fish Friday" became prominent in the 19th century with the rise of fish and chips as a popular working-class meal. Fish and chip shops became a staple of British life, and even today, many continue to enjoy this dish on Fridays, regardless of religious practice.

While the religious obligation to eat fish on Fridays has loosened in many places, the custom persists, particularly in Catholic communities and during Lent. Many families in predominantly Catholic countries like Italy, Spain, and Poland still maintain this tradition.

For many, eating fish on Fridays remains a familiar habit, rooted in centuries of history, though more cultural than religious in many regions.

In conclusion, the tradition of eating fish on Fridays is a fascinating blend of religious observance, historical necessity, and cultural evolution. What began as a Christian practice of penance and reflection has grown into a widespread cultural phenomenon. The story of why people eat fish on Fridays is a reminder of how faith, food, and history are intertwined, shaping not only personal habits but entire communities and economies. Whether observed strictly for religious reasons or as a cultural tradition, the custom of "Fish Friday" remains a meaningful part of life for many people around the world.