June 14 — Ustinov Day national holiday: history, traditions and omens
On June 14, the Orthodox Church commemorates St. Justin the Philosopher and his disciples, who were martyred for the Christian faith in the second century, as well as Justin of Rome, who suffered a century later. In folk tradition, this date is known as Ustinov Day, or Ustin — Lingonberry Lips. It was from this day in Russia that the countdown of the present summer began. In 2025, the holiday falls on a Saturday. Read about his history, beliefs, prohibitions and omens in the Izvestia article.
Ustinov Day – 2025: the history of the holiday
Saint Justin the Philosopher was born in the second century in the city of Shechem (the territory of ancient Samaria) into a family of pagan Greeks. From his youth, he showed extraordinary abilities, aspired to the search for truth through the philosophical schools of his time — from the Stoics to the Platonists. When none of them gave an answer to the question about God, he turned to the Holy Scriptures.
Between the years 133 and 137, Justin was baptized and devoted his life to preaching Christianity. He traveled throughout the Roman Empire, debated publicly, and wrote a number of theological works. The most famous of them, the "Apology" in defense of Christians, he read to Emperor Antoninus Pius around 155.
Later, the famous dialogue of the future saint with the Jewish scientist Tryphon took place in Ephesus — a reasoned dispute in which the philosopher justified the truth of Christianity on the basis of the Old Testament. In the second "Apology", already addressed to the Senate in 161, Justin defended the persecuted Christians and explained the essence of the Christian faith. He emphasized that philosophy paved the way for the arrival of the Gospel, and also described in detail the rites of Baptism and the Eucharist (from Greek. — thank you).
Around the year 165, while in Rome, Justin was arrested along with six of his disciples. They refused to renounce the Christian faith and sacrifice to pagan gods, for which they were tortured and executed.
Another saint, whose memory believers also honor on June 14, the Great Martyr Justin of Rome, lived in the capital of the Roman Empire at the end of the third century, during the fierce persecution of Christians. He was a presbyter and spiritual mentor of the Christian community, leading it during one of the most tragic periods in the history of the Church.
When a wave of repression and executions swept through the city, Justin was forced to bury his brothers in the faith, including St. Pope Sixtus, who had once ordained him to the priesthood. Soon Justin himself was faced with a choice: to renounce Christ, worship pagan gods, or accept martyrdom. He remained firm in his faith and was executed.
Traditions of the national holiday celebrated on June 14th
In the folk tradition, Ustinov Day was considered a symbolic boundary between the seasons. According to legend, it was on June 14 that spring finally left the earth, giving way to summer. The people used to say: "Ustin — between May and June tyn."
Another popular name for this day is "Ustin — Lingonberry lips", as this medicinal berry usually ripened by the middle of June. The housewives dried it, cooked compotes and jams, and added it to winter preparations, especially sauerkraut. It was believed that if you ate a handful of fresh cranberries on Ustinov Day, the year would be successful and prosperous.
Early in the morning on June 14, the housewives went out into the field to collect medicinal herbs. According to legend, it was by this date that they gained the greatest healing power. They tried not to pull out the plants by the roots so that they could germinate again. Respect for nature was an integral part of the rituals of this day.
Saint Justin was revered in Russia as the patron saint of family and marriage, so on the holiday the couple tried to show each other patience and tenderness. The women asked their husbands for forgiveness, but the men did not refuse their requests. People believed that even a small quarrel could leave a long, heavy mark on a relationship.
For unmarried girls, this day had a special meaning. Special rituals were performed on Ustin to get rid of an unwanted suitor, and new acquaintances were avoided, especially with those who showed excessive eloquence and courtesy. According to legend, the pleasant appearance of a potential groom could hide falsehood and deceit.
Prohibitions on June 14: what not to do on Ustinov Day
On St. Justin's Day, there were several prohibitions among the people. Our ancestors tried not to start important business or negotiate, as this could lead to setbacks and problems for the whole year.
The owners were not recommended to repair or erect fences, it was believed that this could lead to a fire. Lies and slander were strictly forbidden, according to beliefs, a person could pay for them with illness or trouble.
Folk signs of June 14
On Ustinov day in Russia, it was customary to observe nature, the ancestors believed that it could predict whether the year would be fruitful. So, the red dawn promised a rich harvest of rye, and a rainy morning foreshadowed a large amount of flax.
If a rainbow appeared in the sky before noon, they waited for a "good" rain that would benefit the fields and crops. The peasants also paid attention to the sounds coming from the forest. For example, the "moaning" oaks and pines promised a storm.
If the geese are cleaning their feathers on the shore, it will start raining soon. And the bustle and active movement of the ants portend a long period of clear weather.
Earlier, Izvestia reported on the traditions and signs of the Feodosiya Kolosyanitsa national holiday.
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