Today is St. Nicholas Day. In addition to giving gifts to children, there are a number of rules that are best followed. So what can and can not be done on this day
Children of different ages are looking forward to the morning of December 19 with special impatience. After all, I really want to know what Saint Nicholas hid under his pillow - a gift or a "garment". But this is child's play, and what about adults? Will this day be another gray weekday? In no case!
On the day of commemoration of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker or, as he is also called, the Pleasant (because he especially pleasing God) for moms, dads, grandfathers and grandmothers there is a set of rules and customs to be followed stick to.
History of the holiday. A legend is known all over the world, according to which Saint Nicholas helped a poor girl to get married. It was Nikolai who threw gold through the window into the room at night, thanks to which the girl had a dowry.
Whether it was really so, no one knows, but the fact that Nikolai is a historical person is a fact. He lived 270 - 345. AD And he was a bishop who took part in the Ecumenical Council of 325. And during his lifetime he performed many miracles. And then he was canonized and is a saint who is revered in both Orthodoxy and Catholicism.
What to do on St. Nicholas Day
Having waited for the "winter" Nicholas (the day of remembrance of this saint is celebrated on May 22 and December 19, which is why people call him summer and winter Nicholas), it is worth starting the day with prayer and service in the church. After all, it is believed that the saint ALWAYS provides invisible help and support to those who ask him for help. It is not in vain that many candles set by parishioners are constantly burning in the churches near his icon.
Be sure to help those who need help on this day. And it doesn't matter if it is a close person or just a stranger.
Children should not only hide a surprise under the pillow, but also be sure to tell about the holiday, about the saint. By the way, our ancestors on this day not only prepared gifts, but also arranged small performances about the saint in order to tell the kids about the holiday in an accessible form.
Also on December 19, you should set a festive table and have fun with your friends. Remember the main thing: although the table should be rich, the dishes on it should be lean. After all, the Nativity Fast is still going on.
And you must certainly have fun and rejoice. It is believed that this will bring happiness and peace for the whole year.
What is forbidden on the day of St. Nicholas
You can not be sad, quarreling and swearing. It is a great sin to indulge in negativity and despondency on such a bright holiday.
Also, you cannot work for Nikolai. Including there is a ban on sewing, embroidery, washing and cleaning around the house. It is better on this day to just chat with relatives, play with children, because this is what we often do not have enough time for.
Our ancestors also believed that on this day it is forbidden to lend money to anyone, because luck and happiness will leave home. Therefore, put all your financial affairs aside until the next day. And let Saint Nicholas help you in everything! Happy holidays!
And also be sure to find out 5 great gift ideas for a child on St. Nicholas Day.
