August 19 – Apple Savior: is it possible to eat apples, what not to do, strong prayer

Yablochny Spas, also known as the Transfiguration of the Lord, is celebrated annually on August 19th. This holiday is important in the Orthodox tradition and symbolizes the beginning of autumn. On this day, the fruits of the new harvest are also consecrated in temples. Izvestia tells us what actions should not be performed during the Apple Rescue and whether the use of apples is allowed during this period.

On August 19, Yablochny Spas is celebrated in Russia.

The holiday was named "Apple Savior" because it is by this time that apples ripen, which become the main symbol of the celebration.

On this day, Orthodox Christians remember the Transfiguration of the Lord, when on Mount Tabor the apostles saw the transfigured face of Christ and heard a voice from heaven that before them was the Son of God. Therefore, the holiday is also called the Savior on the Mountain.

Initially, in the East, grapes were consecrated on the day of the Transfiguration, since it was the first fruit of the new harvest. In Russia, grapes did not ripen at that time, and they were replaced by apples, which became the main fruit of August. Since then, the holiday has been called "Apple Savior" and is closely associated with the tradition of giving thanks for the harvest.

The day symbolizes gratitude for the gifts of the earth and the desire for spiritual transformation.

What to cook for Yablochny Spas on August 19

Apple dishes are prepared for the table: pies, charlotte, baked apples with honey and nuts. Housewives make jams and compotes to preserve the taste of the harvest for the winter. Honey and nuts occupy a special place on the festive table, because Honey and Nut Saviors are celebrated next to each other according to the calendar.

The food for the holiday is symbolic: apples and honey were considered signs of a sweet and happy life.

Is it possible to work for Apple Rescue

Hard work was not welcome that day. By tradition, they tried not to go out into the field and not to engage in construction. Instead, people devoted the day to prayer, family, and gratitude for the harvest.

However, it was not considered mandatory to completely abandon cases. It was allowed to prepare treats and preparations, but without exhausting labor.

Is it possible to eat apples on Apple Spas

According to tradition, apples of the new harvest could not be tasted before the consecration in the temple. This prohibition is connected with gratitude to God for the first fruits. After the service, the apples were brought home and eaten by the whole family.

It was believed that the first consecrated apple should be eaten with a special request — they believed that the wish would come true.

What not to do on Yablochny Spas

On this day, it was forbidden to quarrel, slander, envy and refuse help. It was believed that a person who violated these rules risked losing happiness and prosperity. It was also not recommended to engage in hard work and start new businesses.

The people believed that the day should be spent in harmony and tranquility. Even everyday tasks were tried to be performed with prayer and gratitude, so that the holiday would bring joy and well-being to the house.

A strong prayer for the Apple Savior

The main prayer of the feast is the troparion of the Transfiguration of the Lord.:

"You were transfigured on the mountain, O Christ God, having shown Your glory as a disciple, just as you could. May Your ever-present light shine upon us sinners, through the prayers of the Mother of God, glory to You."

This prayer is read in churches on August 19 and is considered an expression of the essence of the holiday: a request for spiritual light and grace.

Folk omens on August 19, at Yablochny Spas

There are many signs associated with the holiday. If the harvest of apples is rich, then the winter will be cold and snowy. Rain on this day was considered a good sign and promised a good harvest next year.

According to legend, if a girl eats an apple with honey, her life will be sweet and happy. The first consecrated apple had to be eaten with prayer and supplication, believing that it would be fulfilled.

Earlier, on August 14, Izvestia told what customs and signs are associated with the Honey Savior.