March 17 — Gerasim Grachevnik: why old shoes were thrown away on a holiday
On March 17, the Orthodox Church honors Saints Gerasim of Jordan and Gerasim of Vologda. This day was popularly called Gerasim the Rooker, as rooks arrive from warm countries closer to the middle of the month and real spring begins. Izvestia tells about how the Slavs celebrated the holiday, what traditions and signs are associated with it.
Gerasim Grachevnik in 2025 — the history of the holiday
St. Gerasim of Jordan was born at the beginning of the 5th century in Lycia, in the territory of modern Turkey. In his youth, he took vows and became a monk, devoting his entire life to the service of God. St. Gerasim lived in the 12th century and is known as the first Vologda wonderworker. Both are venerated by the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) as saints.
In Russia, the day of remembrance of Christian ascetics coincided with the arrival of the rooks. These birds were held in high esteem and respect. After all, they were not only harbingers of spring, but also indispensable assistants in the fight against insect pests. In addition, the rooks with their cry scared away evil spirits that harmed people.
As a result, over time, the holiday was given the name "Gerasim Grachevnik Day" and its own traditions of celebrating this date developed. In 2025, it falls on a Monday.
The traditions of Gerasim Hrachevnik in 2025
To speed up the onset of heat, Gerasim baked "rooks" from rye dough. Each one contained one small object for divination. Our ancestors believed that rooks could predict fate. It was forbidden to offend birds and destroy their nests.
Gerasim Hrachevnik was usually used to fight evil spirits. The Kikimora annoyed the farmers the most. People used to say, "Gerasim will bring back the rook, but kick out the Kikimora." It was believed that an evil spirit had settled in the house, spoiling food and covering the walls with mold. A witch doctor was even invited to the dwelling, who read special spells.
Holey galoshes and worn shoes were also thrown away on this day. According to legend, a Kikimora was hiding there, after which it was forbidden to wear shoes. Otherwise, it could lead to illnesses and other troubles.
The girls at that time were guessing about marriage. The people believed that all predictions about Gerasim Grachevnik come true. The most common way was to go out the gate and see who would be the first to meet. If it was a woman, then the wedding is just around the corner, and if it's a man, then I'll spend another year as a girl.
What can and cannot be done on the holiday of Gerasim Grachevnik
The holiday is perfect for general cleaning. Housewives are advised to flush all the far corners, sort out the closets and ventilate the rooms thoroughly — then all the bad things will leave the home.
In the old days, on Gerasim, it was customary to check the birdhouses for readiness to meet guests or make new ones. This tradition is still popular today. By taking care of birds, you can attract prosperity and well-being to your home.
But you should not make large purchases or go on a long trip on March 17. It is believed that large losses may soon be incurred or unforeseen difficulties may arise.
Gerasim Grachevnik on March 17, 2025 — folk signs
Since the main characters of the national holiday are rooks, their habits on this day determined what to expect in the future. So, if the birds are returning to their nests, it's a good sign. So, the real spring has come.
If the rooks are worried and flock, then the weather will change soon. And when birds are briskly circling in the air — for warm sunny days.
Earlier, Izvestia told how Prokop Dorogorushitel's day is celebrated and what traditions are associated with it.
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