A special holiday on May 25 is Epiphany Day: folk signs, strict prohibitions

On Saturday, May 25, believers honor the memory of Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus, one of the early fathers of the Church. Mountain ash usually begins to bloom at this time. Therefore, in the national calendar, the holiday has two names — Epiphan day, or Ryabinovka. Read about how the holiday was celebrated in the old days and what traditions are associated with it in the Izvestia article.

What is the holiday on May 25th?

Saint Epiphanius lived in Phoenicia in the fourth century. He became famous as a zealous defender of the church and a denouncer of heresies. The saint made the decision to become a Christian in his youth. One day, he met a monk who discovered Christian teachings for him. After this meeting, Epiphanius decided to devote his life to serving God.

After a while, he went to a monastery, where he began copying Greek books. The righteous man observed strict fasts and prayed a lot, for which the Lord rewarded him with the gift of miracle-working. Fearing human fame, he retired to the deserts of Spanidrion, becoming a hermit. However, people kept coming to him. Gradually, a circle of followers and disciples formed around the saint. Together with Epiphanius, they built the Spanidrion monastery in the desert.

In 367, at the request of the inhabitants, the saint took the see of the bishop of the city of Salamis in Cyprus. He was also buried there. Later, the Seventh Ecumenical Council named Epiphanius the father and teacher of the church. He is revered by Orthodox and Catholics.

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In Russia, St. Epiphany's memorial day coincided with the flowering of mountain ash. This tree was considered sacred by the Eastern Slavs. There are many legends, rituals and magical rituals associated with it. As a result, the people have developed their own traditions of the holiday known as Ryabinovka.

Folk signs of May 25

Since ancient times, mountain ash has been known as a symbol of fertility, family happiness and well-being. Rowan protected from the evil eye and evil spirits. Therefore, she was always planted under the windows so that evil would not enter the dwelling. More trees were planted near the porch. This did not allow an evil person to cross the threshold of the house.

Traditionally, on a holiday in the villages, a sprig of mountain ash was placed in a jug of water. It was believed that the longer it stood, the longer the owners would be accompanied by luck in all matters.

The girls wore red sundresses and beads resembling rowan berries on the Rowan tree. In this outfit, they approached a flowering tree, asking for a quick marriage. Only married couples planted young rowan trees near their homes as a talisman.

Breaking and felling trees was strictly forbidden. Such actions promised great misfortunes. But if the tree itself sprouted near the house, it was a good sign — you can expect prosperity and good luck.

Epiphany Day in 2025: what can and cannot be done

On this day, you should not be sad and despondent. It is not recommended to recall events from the past and complain about your fate, as the situation can only worsen. According to the signs, it is forbidden to pick up sharp objects because of the risk of injury.

Following the tradition, on a holiday you can decorate the house with mountain ash branches, and choosing a casual wardrobe, give preference to red clothes.

The day before, Mokey the Wet was celebrated in Russia, which fell on the memorial day of Saint Moki of Amphipolis. This day was used to judge how rainy the summer would be. Izvestia talked about the history and traditions of the holiday.