ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

fast of nineveh

Okay kiddo, let me tell you about something called "Fast of Nineveh." In some parts of the world, like in the Middle East, there's a special period called Lent where people fast and pray for 40 days to get closer to God.

Now, the Fast of Nineveh is a bit different. It's a 3-day fast that is observed by some Christian denominations, like the Assyrian Church of the East and the Chaldean Catholic Church. It usually happens in January, before Lent.

The story behind this fast goes way back in time to a city called Nineveh which was in ancient Mesopotamia. It's where the prophet Jonah was sent by God to warn the people to repent of their sins or face destruction.

Jonah wasn't too keen on that idea at first and tried to run away, but eventually, he listened to God and preached to the people of Nineveh. To his surprise, they actually listened and repented of their sins, which saved the city from destruction.

The Fast of Nineveh is a way for these Christian communities to remember the repentance of the people of Nineveh and Jonah's message of hope. During the fast, they abstain from food and drink for three days and spend time praying and reflecting on their own lives.

It's important to note that not all Christians observe this fast, as different denominations have different practices during Lent and other religious events. But for those who do, it's a way to connect with their faith and remember an important story from their religious history.