February 15, Orthodox Christians celebrate one of the major feasts - Presentation of the Lord. What are the traditions of the holiday, you can do that day, and what is prohibited?
Candlemas refers to neperehodyaschim holidays, which means a certain fixed date - February 15. This marks a big celebration "meeting" (as from Church literally translates this word) with God. On the fortieth day after the birth of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, according to tradition, brought the baby to the church to witness his birth. The Prophet Simeon, recognizing in it the Christ of the Savior, declared that the prophecy had been waiting for more than 200 years, it has come true. This "meeting" marks the transition from the Old to the New Testament, the meeting of two eras. Bogomladentsa recognized also Anna, a prophetess, who also worshiped Jesus, alerted citizens that the prophecies come true, and to light the Savior was born to save the sinful soul. On this day, all Orthodox Christians revere and pray to the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.
What not to do on a holiday?
Candlemas - a big celebration, so the cleaning, laundry and any physical labor is prohibited. Moreover, in those days, and you should not do needlework, if it is not a matter of prime necessity.
In celebration forbidden quarrels and conflicts with loved ones, as this can lead to big trouble and problems for all family members.
It is forbidden to drink spirits and bad language.
On Candlemas making money is a sin, an exception only for those professions that are associated with the rescue of human life: doctors, firefighters and others.
Our ancestors believed that Candlemas is necessary to be very careful with the water, it was forbidden to go fishing, and even wash wash.
On Candlemas it is not necessary to go on a long journey, in ancient times believed that because of the changeable weather on the road can happen trouble. There is even a saying: "On Candlemas went on the road - do not come back home soon."
On the Presentation of the Lord can not be bored, because it is a great holiday that you want to accept and carry out with joy in my heart.
What is a must-do on the Presentation of the Lord
Go to church on a festive service, put a candle and ask the Lord for the health and well-being.
Blessing of water - one of the most important rites of Candlemas. This water Our ancestors also appreciated as Epiphany, it was believed that it has medicinal properties, therefore, is required to go to the temple and hallow water.
Also during the service light candles. Our ancestors believed that Sretensky firehas a special power, it is able to protect man and his house from all troubles and misfortunes, from disease and bad weather.
In this day it is necessary to cover the holiday table and collect them for the whole family. necessarily cook pancakes- this is the main dish on the holiday table. By tradition, the pancakes at Candlemas is necessary to treat each member of the family, and even pets.
Also be sure to ask about as Candlemas using larks dough zaklikaet spring
Picture text: istockphoto.com/ photo from open sources
