The priest explained the reasons for the strict fasting on September 11

Strict fasting on September 11 is associated with the church holiday of the Beheading of John the Baptist, which is dedicated to the memory of the violent death of the prophet. On this day, believers remember how, by order of King Herod Antipas, John's head was cut off. This was announced by the priest, cleric of the church of the Great Martyr George the Victorious in the city of Vidnoye, John Stepanchuk, in a conversation with Izvestia.

"On this day, the violent death of the prophet is remembered: by order of Herod, John's head was cut off. The holiday is devoid of the usual festive joy — it is a day of deep sadness and prayerful reflection. Fasting becomes an expression of the common sorrow of believers," he explained.

According to the Gospel, the execution of John the Baptist took place during a feast attended by nobles and guests. The Holy Fathers emphasized that Herod "reigned over pleasure," becoming a slave to sensual pleasures.

John Stepanchuk noted that fasting on this day presupposes a conscious rejection of gluttony, wine drinking and other manifestations of lust, which became an indirect cause of the tragedy.

Read more in the article:

For denouncing the tsar, he ended up in prison and died: the story and meaning of the day of John the Baptist's martyrdom