The Circumcision of the Lord on January 14: the history of the holiday and what is categorically forbidden to do.

History of the Holiday

According to ТСН: The Circumcision is an ancient tradition instituted by Abraham, observed by all Jewish families. According to the law, every boy undergoes the circumcision ritual on the eighth day after birth, symbolizing purification and acceptance of God's covenant. After this, the child is given a name, which becomes a sign of the lasting spiritual connection of a Jew with the Lord.

Mary and Joseph, the parents of Jesus, also fulfilled this covenant, following the will of their ancestors. Jesus Christ also fulfilled His Father's will on earth.

The Circumcision of the Lord became a day of Christ's first sacrifice and pain – this was the first time His body met iron. On this day, Jesus was given His name and publicly called Jesus for the first time. The angel of the Lord promised the Holy Family that they would have a son named Jesus, but this prophecy remained a mystery. Therefore, January 14 is also celebrated as the Day of Christ's Name and a day of special prayer to Jesus.

Traditions

Earlier, January 1 was celebrated loudly and joyfully, accompanied by carnival festivities. People would dress up: men as women, women as men, some would wear costumes of animals or pagan gods. These festivities were accompanied by merriment, jokes, and sometimes excessive behavior.

To counter such pagan customs, the Church introduced fasting and penance after Christmas for sins associated with pagan celebrations. Sometimes the fast lasted three days — this rule was established as early as 567 in Tours, France:

“Because pagan celebrations occur between the feasts of Christmas and Epiphany, it is necessary to keep a fast for three days during them.”

Only after several centuries, when pagan festivities began to fade into the past, did the Circumcision of the Lord start to be celebrated joyfully. Among popular traditions, the custom of 'leading Malanka' has been preserved — a group of people with a boy dressed as a girl and a goat among them. It is important to remember that these folk rituals have no spiritual connection to the meaning of the holiday as defined by the Church.

What is forbidden to do

To ensure the day passes blessedly, one should follow these rules:

1. Do not refuse forgiveness or help — otherwise, you risk failure.

2. Avoid quarrels, insults, curses, and negative thoughts.

3. Do not lend money, so the year does not pass in financial difficulties.

4. It is not recommended to take out the trash from the house on this day.

5. Avoid financial calculations and do not count small change — this is considered a bad omen.

Prayers for the Circumcision of the Lord

Morning Prayer to Jesus Christ

“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, through the prayers of Your Most Pure Mother and all the saints, have mercy on us. Amen.”

“Jesus Christ, Son of God, bless this day.”

“Jesus Christ, bless my children (family, husband, wife…).”

Evening Prayer to Jesus Christ

“Almighty, Word Father, all-holy Jesus! From Your great mercy, never leave Your servant (name) and always abide in me. Jesus, Good Shepherd of Your sheep, do not give me over to the serpent and do not allow Satan to tempt me, for there is evil seed in me. Therefore, You, Lord God, worthy of worship, Holy King, Jesus Christ, protect me while I sleep, with the Light that never dims — Your Holy Spirit, which You consecrated Your disciples with. Grant, Lord, and to me, unworthy Your servant, Your Salvation on my bed, enlighten my mind with the light of understanding of Your Holy Gospel, my soul — with love for Your Christ, my heart — with purity of Your Word, my body — with Your innocent Passion, keep my thoughts with Your humility and at the proper time raise me up from sleep for Your praise. For You are Most Glorified with Your Eternal Father and All-Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.”

The Circumcision of the Lord is an important Christian holiday that not only commemorates the moment when Jesus received His name but also emphasizes the significance of spiritual tradition in the lives of believers. This day invites reflection on spirituality and relationships with God, as well as reminding of the importance of preserving traditions in our lives.