Khrystiansky Sviatvechir January 18: what is allowed and what is categorically forbidden.

According to ТСН: This holiday is commonly referred to in folk culture as Khrystiansky Sviatvechir or Holodna Kuta, as the traditions and rituals of this evening are closely related to the preparation for Baptism.

Why we celebrate Khrystiansky Sviatvechir

Khrystiansky Sviatvechir is celebrated the day before Baptism (Yordan), so on this day, the events of Epiphany, described in church books, are remembered. This evening has become a time of preparation for the main holiday, and in some regions, it marks the last day of caroling and fortune-telling. Like other holidays of the Christmas cycle, the eve of Epiphany is characterized by solemn customs and traditions.

Traditions of Khrystiansky Sviatvechir

Many rituals of this day echo the traditions of Christmas Eve, although some are directly related to Baptism.

Cleaning the home

It was believed that celebrating in an unclean house scares away happiness and well-being. On the eve of Epiphany, all household chores were attempted to be completed by evening, as work at home is banned on Baptism.

Blessing the water

In churches, the water is blessed, which, according to beliefs, is no less healing than on the holiday itself. Relatives, the corners of the house, and the yard are sprinkled with holy water, and the dishes for blessing are decorated with dried flowers - cornflower or immortelle, which serve as a talisman against evil. In Podillia, three pies were even baked, which the youngest family member bit during the blessing of the house.

Fasting and ritual dinner

On the eve of Epiphany, strict fasting is observed. The holiday table is prepared with lean dishes - fish, buckwheat pancakes, dumplings with cabbage, kutya and uzvar. Dinner begins with kutya, and then chickens are treated for better fertility.

Drawing crosses

In Podillia and Polissia, crosses were drawn with chalk or dough mixed with holy water on windows, doors, and walls to protect the home from evil forces.

Fortune telling

In Halychyna, people would go fortune-telling, bringing hazel branches as a talisman. The host would scatter oats for good harvests.

What is categorically forbidden on Khrystiansky Sviatvechir

1. Causing quarrels, thinking badly of someone, or fighting – this day should be peaceful for a successful year ahead.

2. Doing heavy household chores – this is considered disrespectful to the holiday.

3. Blessing water with bad thoughts – the liquid will lose its healing properties.

4. Loudly calling chickens – according to beliefs, this can harm the domestic birds.

Khrystiansky Sviatvechir is not only about traditional rituals and delicious food, but also a time when families gather together to celebrate important moments. This day is filled with spirituality and family warmth, as in Ukraine, people celebrate not only the events themselves but also remember their significance in the culture and beliefs of the people.

They lay the foundation for festive events that last until Baptism, as each ritual reflects the soul of the Ukrainian people and its traditions. Sviatvechir is a wonderful opportunity to renew connections with family and spirituality.