Fasting

Fasting, or self-restrictions, seem to be a common element among all religions.  The Ethiopian Orthodox Church is no exception.  In fact, it has a total of 250 days a year, which are supposed to be fasting, including every Wednesday and Friday. Currently, we are in the middle of a 55 day fast for Lent.  For the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, fast generally implies not eating anything before 3 pm and complete abstention from meat, fats, eggs and dairy products, basically a vegan diet.  

This seems, from my limited exposure, to be practiced widely and faithfully.  I have stuck my foot in my mouth a few times making what would seem to be very tempting offers, such as coca-cola before noon or birthday cake, only to be reminded of the fast.  This is such a large part of the culture that every restaurant has noted on the menu fasting and non-fasting dishes.  Luckily for Ethiopians, injera is acceptable during fasts!