Peter and Paul Day: Prohibitions, Signs, and Historical Significance
Every year on June 29, Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate an important church holiday - the Day of the Supreme Apostles Peter and Paul. This day has a deep historical and spiritual significance for believers, because the apostles Peter and Paul were faithful followers of Jesus Christ, who after his death and resurrection began to preach the gospel teachings, contributing to the spread of Christianity in the world. They became symbols of faith, courage, and devotion to their ideals, and their feat is still an inspiration for millions of people. What not to do on Peter and Paul Day The history of the Ukrainian folk calendar has preserved special prohibitions and warnings that were observed on this holiday. It was believed that observing these rules helps to avoid misfortunes and secure blessings for the future. Therefore, on Peter and Paul Day, it was categorically not allowed to swear, slander, or wish evil on other people. It was a day of purity of speech and good intentions. Work was given special attention. It was believed that on this day one should not do hard physical work - do not clean, sew, wash or knit. This could bring misfortune or deterioration in the future. It was also forbidden to swim in water bodies - it was believed that evil spirits could drag those who violated this prohibition to the bottom. It was not allowed to hold weddings on this day, as it was believed that celebrating a marriage on such a holy date could negatively affect the future life of the couple. After a festive meal, food should not be removed from the table, as it was believed that the remains of food are a particle of spiritual energy that must be left for deceased relatives so that they do not envy and harm the living. Another important prohibition is not to refuse alms to the needy. Over the centuries, people have formed this wisdom: by helping others, you can attract the generosity of the Lord and ensure good in your home. Folk signs and beliefs It was believed that this day has omens and signs that help predict the future. According to folk beliefs, if on Peter and Paul's Day the weather is clear and cloudless, expect a good potato harvest, which was very important for agriculture and guaranteed prosperity for the family. There were also opposite signs: rain on this day reported a small harvest of berries and a deterioration in the agricultural season. Another sign was to hear a forge - then difficulties or unexpected troubles are likely to come. According to folk beliefs, if there is heat on the day of the holiday, then on Christmas you can expect frosts, which were a signal of a cold winter and a good time to prepare for the cold months. Thus, Peter and Paul Day is not only a church holiday, but also a day filled with traditions, prohibitions, and folk signs that have long been passed down from generation to generation. They helped our ancestors not only maintain spiritual purity and family harmony, but also predict the weather and success in the household, laying the foundations for a happy and harmonious life.