Holy Evening December 24: how to properly predict and why the Church condemns it.

According to ТСН: The practice of divination during winter holidays attracts the attention of many, especially women, who seek to learn about their future through various means. The night from December 24 to December 25 is considered special: according to folk beliefs, at this time the boundary between worlds becomes almost invisible, and both good and evil forces come to Earth, which can either help or confuse people. Despite the negative attitude of the official Church towards divination, folk traditions continue to exist.

How to Divinate on Holy Evening

Preparation for the Magical Night

For the divination to be successful, it is worth following a few simple rules. First, choose a cozy and clean place without external noises, such as TVs or computers. Enter the room only with those who are participating in the divination, and close all windows and doors. It is also important to pay attention to your body, do not cross your arms and legs. Treat divination seriously, as frivolity can lead to troubles with spirits. Alcohol during the rituals is also strictly prohibited.

Young girls are usually most interested in questions about personal life: the name of the future husband, the date of the wedding, the number of children, and the character of the partner. Modern questions may concern successfully passing exams or choosing a new smartphone.

Popular Ways to Know the Future

There are many methods of divination—from complex rituals with Tarot cards to simple household techniques.

• Classic boot divination. A girl throws a boot onto the road, and the direction of the toe indicates where the bridegroom will come from.

• Divination between mirrors. At midnight, a girl sits between two mirrors in the light of two candles, and if the spirits are favorable, she may see the face of her future partner.

• Wax divination. A ring without a stone is placed in a bowl of water, and melted wax is poured into the water. The shapes of the figures can reveal events in life.

• Prophetic lines from a favorite book. After asking a question, choose a page and line number; the read sentence will serve as a hint.

• Egg divination. An egg white is poured into a glass of warm water. If a figure forms, it is a hint about the future.

• Nut boats. Walnut shells with small candles are launched into the water; the event will happen as per the note to which the boat floats.

Why Religion Condemns Divination

Despite the popularity of such practices, the Church traditionally opposes divination, considering it a serious sin. From a Christian perspective, divination is seen as a manifestation of unbelief since a person's life is in God's hands. True believers should completely trust His will, as attempting to learn one's fate through magical rituals may cast doubt on this faith.

Divination during winter holidays remains a relevant element of Ukrainian culture. It is not only a way to learn about the future but also an opportunity to gather with loved ones, preserving ancient traditions. Thus, even if religious views and cultures may differ, the desire to know one's future remains universal.