January 20 the Orthodox Church marks the Cathedral Baptist and John the Baptist. What is the history and traditions of this holiday?
After the great feasts in the Orthodox Church decided to remember those who have played in this sacred event an important role, so immediately after the Epiphany, the Church marks the Cathedral Baptist and John. John the Baptist - the most revered saint after the Virgin Mary, he miraculously survived and escaped death when in Bethlehem killed thousands of babies. John lived in the desert until, until the Lord called him and that John the Baptist came to the people on the banks of the Jordan, in his sermon, He said that before getting a bath outside, a person must be cleansed morally and prepare for the sacrament of grace baptism.
That it is necessary to do that day?
In the morning the religious people go to church for the service.
January 20th be sure to drink on an empty stomach baptismal water, to the full year to be healthy and not get sick.
On this day people celebrate "posvyatki" - the transition from holidays to weekdays, with
This usually begins working life.Saint John the Baptist - the patron of children, so mother in this day pray for the health of their children.
leftovers from the holidays, according to tradition, it was necessary to feed the pet and start farming.
Hostess take out their crafts, which at the time of the holidays was forbidden (sewing, knitting, yarn), as it was thought that the "dashing force can thread lured".
After this holiday comes a meat-eater - a few weeks, which is allowed to eat meat, walking, wedding, sing songs and drink alcoholic beverages.
John the Baptist made to woo and organize the wedding.
According to popular tradition, a woman on the night of St. John the Baptist are going to sing and walk all night, not subservient to men, not cook and they can not ignore.
What not to do at the Cathedral of John the Baptist and the Lord
Our ancestors believed that John the Baptist can not wash, otherwise you will be deceived.
It was forbidden to indulge in sad and discouraged, because it is a day of joy, and the one who will be sad, hold in tears the whole year.
Signs of John the Baptist
If this day to drink some alcohol, then the person will protect yourself from sadness for the entire year, but it is important to know when to stop and not to overdo it.
If the January 20 youth walk the wedding, the bride should be sure to drink a little wine to family life was happy and joyful.
If you see the mouse - it promises the completion of the family in the near future.
If this holiday is to christen the child, he will have good fortune and support for higher powers.
If you see a wild goose or swan that day - that celebrate the most cherished desire.
Also be sure to ask about how to use the power of the full moon on January 21, to make a secret wish
Picture text: istockphoto.com, from open sources
