June 18 is a significant Russian holiday, Dorofeyev Day: folk signs that you can not do

On June 18, Orthodox believers commemorate the Holy Martyr Dorotheus of Tyre, Bishop of Tyre of Phoenicia. He led the flock for 50 years, converting pagans, and was martyred under Julian the Apostate at the age of 107. This date is not a rolling date, it is celebrated on the same day. Starting on June 18, it's time for the shortest nights of the year. They were popularly called sparrows, and the holiday itself was called Dorofeyev Day, or Dorofey — Sparrow Nights. Izvestia tells about the history of the celebration and how it was celebrated in the old days.

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On June 18, Orthodox Christians honor the memory of the great Elder Dorotheus of Tyre. This bishop, being a very old man, bravely went to torture and execution, but did not renounce the faith.

The saint lived in the III–IV centuries in Phoenicia under the Emperor Diocletian, who became famous for severe persecution of Christians. Dorotheus, who preached Christian doctrine, was forced to hide for a long time. He returned to his native lands when Emperor Constantine the Great ascended to the throne, proclaiming Christianity the dominant religion.

Under the new ruler, Dorotheus was elevated to the rank of bishop. He ruled the diocese for almost half a century — until Julian the Apostate came to power, who resumed the persecution of Christians. The bishop was one of the first to be arrested and tortured. He ended his life in 362, dying at the hands of idolaters at the age of 107.

The saint is revered by the church as a hieromartyr. His memory is celebrated in the Orthodox Church on June 18, and among Catholics on June 5.

In Russia, there are many signs and traditions associated with this day. There are also many names for the holiday: the Day of the Magus-Dorotheus, the Day of sleep-grass, Sparrow Nights.

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In 2025, the holiday is celebrated on June 8th and 9th, respectively.

Folk signs of June 18

The Slavs believed that a magical dream-grass bloomed on Dorotheus, a perennial flower from the buttercup family. This plant blooms with yellow and blue flowers at night. Because of this, the flower was endowed with mystical properties. It was believed that the dream herb could induce sleep and predict the future, and anyone who falls asleep among a flowering plant gains the gift of clairvoyance.

Dream grass was often used during fortune-telling, worn as a talisman and laid in the foundation during the construction of a new house. With her help, evil spirits were repelled, and remedies were prepared from stems and flowers that helped with various pains and inflammations.

Traditionally, on Dorofey, housewives replenished their grass supplies, and also took care of household chores: they cleaned the house, did laundry, and tidied up the barns and stables. On the holiday, we tried to do as much as possible, believing that on this special day, fatigue is unknown and any work is within our strength.

Much attention was paid to dreams, which were considered prophetic, and weather signs. So, the clear and warm weather promised a good grain harvest. And if there is fog over the reservoirs, there will be a lot of mushrooms.

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According to legend, on June 18, one should refrain from night walks. To walk on Dorotheev night means to bring troubles and illnesses closer. It is undesirable to talk about your dreams and make new acquaintances, as they will turn into disappointments.

Quarrels and swearing are also prohibited, otherwise the relationship may deteriorate for a long time. On Dorotheus Day, it is necessary to show mercy and tolerance to other people. It is good to devote a festive day to household chores or work in the garden. For example, weeding the beds — then, as was believed in the old days, weeds can be forgotten until autumn.

The day before, Mitrofan the Dung Man was celebrated in Russia. Izvestia told about the history, traditions and prohibitions of this day.