March 17 is the memorial day of the Blessed Prince Daniel of Moscow: what is he known for, who does he help

On March 17, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of the Blessed Prince Daniel of Moscow, the son of Grand Duke Alexander Nevsky, who laid the foundations for the rise of the Moscow Principality. In 2025, the celebrations will be held on Monday. What the saint became famous for, what they pray to him about, what can and cannot be done on this day, Izvestia tells.

Daniil Moskovsky Memorial Day: what is celebrated on March 17

Daniel of Moscow was born in 1261 in Vladimir. He was the fourth son of the Holy Prince Alexander Nevsky and Princess Alexandra Bryachislavna of Polotsk. The couple already had three sons and a daughter, Evdokia. Daniel was the youngest in the family.

The exact date of his birth is unknown. But it can be assumed that he was born in early to mid—December, since this time marks the memorial day of St. Daniel Stylites, after whom the first appanage prince of Moscow was named in the future. Later, this saint was depicted on the seals of the prince, and it was in his honor that the Danilov Monastery in Moscow was erected.

When Daniel was two years old, his father died on his way home from the Horde. Soon, his mother also died. Prince Yaroslav Yaroslavich of Tver, Alexander Nevsky's brother, was responsible for the upbringing of little Daniel. After his uncle's death, Daniil inherited the Moscow Principality. At that time, it was much smaller and poorer than the lands ruled by his older brothers.

The only city in the principality was Moscow. Daniel began his reign with the expansion of the Kremlin, the construction of monasteries and the strengthening of borders. Later, he annexed Kolomna, Mozhaisk and Pereslavl to his possessions, putting the entire course of the Moskva River under his control. By the end of the 13th century, the Moscow Principality had transformed from a small and unenviable inheritance into an economically developed and strong territory. Daniel himself became one of the most influential princes of Northeastern Russia.

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The prince died in 1303 from an illness. Shortly before his death, he took monastic vows. According to the prince's testament, he was buried in the general cemetery on the territory of the Danilov monastery built by him. The church commemorates the saint twice a year: on March 17 (March 4, Old style), on the day of his death, and on September 12 (August 30, Old style)— on the day of the finding of the incorruptible relics.

How does St. Daniel of Moscow help

The Holy Prince Daniel of Moscow is revered as a wise ruler and a great lover of peace. Even during his lifetime, he managed to reconcile the warring parties more than once. In addition, he became famous for many good deeds, taking care of those in need.

The defenders of the Fatherland enjoy the special patronage of the Moscow Prince. It is believed that prayer in front of the icon of the saint helps in cases when the country and people are in military danger.

The monk also helps in solving everyday problems. He is often approached in difficult life situations, with requests to resolve conflicts, property and financial disputes, get rid of enemies and preserve peace.

What can and cannot be done on a church holiday on March 17th

On the memorial day of the holy Prince, services are held in churches. On the holiday, believers come to church to remember the life and deeds of Daniel of Moscow, and to pray for the health and well-being of their loved ones.

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As on other church holidays, it is forbidden to swear and provoke conflicts on this day. Gossip, foul language, and bad behavior should be avoided. You can also not do cleaning and heavy physical labor.

Whenever possible, it is necessary to provide assistance to those who need it. In addition, it is necessary to observe the food restrictions that apply in Lent. Until Easter (April 20), the church imposes a ban on meat, dairy products, eggs and dishes made from them.

Who celebrates the name day on March 17, 2025

On the Orthodox holiday of March 17, the name day is celebrated by men named Alexander, Vasily, Vyacheslav, Gregory, Daniel, Kondrat, Pavel and Yakov, as well as women named Ulyana.

Earlier, Izvestia told what St. Luke of Hellas is known for, whose memorial day was celebrated at the end of February.