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Folk signs for October 15: what can and cannot be done

Russians were told about folk signs on October 15
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Photo: Global Look Press/S. Klewitz-Seemann/blickwinkel
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In Russia, omens have been given special importance since ancient times. They were used to judge the weather, the time when to sow and harvest, and what to expect in the future. Therefore, every day of the national calendar was full of rituals and superstitions. Izvestia tells about the popular signs of Wednesday, October 15, and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.

Folk signs for October 15, 2025

In Russia, Kuprian and Ustinya holidays were celebrated on October 15. It was believed that evil forces were especially active at this time, so special rituals were held in the villages to protect the house and loved ones. During the day, they did household chores and household chores, preparing for the onset of cold weather. In good weather, we went to the forest for mushrooms, honey mushrooms and chanterelles. According to legend, mushrooms harvested on Kupriyana and Ustinya are excellent for salting.

From the middle of autumn, the wedding season began in towns and villages, and according to custom, the holiday was devoted to pre-wedding chores. The girls put their dowries in order, and in the evening they gathered for parties. Together with the bridesmaids, they did needlework and sang songs. The young men were checking roofs, strengthening fences, and harvesting firewood. They tried to complete all the preparations for Kupriyan and Ustinya, so that everything would be ready for the beginning of their life together.

It was also customary to observe nature. It was believed that the weather on this day could tell what the end of autumn and the coming winter would be like. So, if the water in the well becomes cloudy, the rainy season with thunderstorms is coming. And if the puddles in the yard don't dry out for a long time, it will soon get colder.

Other signs of the day:

  • a circle is visible around the moon — there will be bad weather.;
  • morning frost — for clear days;
  • It's quiet and peaceful during the day — frosts are possible at night;
  • south wind — for a mild winter, north wind — for frosts;
  • the fall of leaves began — by the onset of cold weather.
  • The chickens perched up, ready for a change in the weather;
  • the cat stays in a warm place all day — snow is coming soon.

What not to do on October 15th

On Kupriyanov Day, there were strict prohibitions, the violation of which could attract the attention of dark forces to the house and its inhabitants. For this reason, it was forbidden to quarrel, conflict, swear, as well as engage in fortune—telling or contact magicians on the holiday - any of these actions could turn into troubles and misfortunes.

What else can't be done on October 15th:

  • to let strangers and other people's pets into the house — according to beliefs, evil spirits will enter the dwelling under their guise.;
  • Wearing flashy clothes and jewelry can attract the evil eye.;
  • to drink alcohol — the ancestors believed that it lures devils;
  • taking large amounts of money with you — losses are possible;
  • Make quick decisions — they can be wrong;
  • to enter into large transactions — there is a risk of being deceived;
  • Going on a long journey can be dangerous.

What is the church holiday on October 15th?

On October 15, Orthodox Christians commemorate the Holy Martyrs Cyprian, Justina and Theoktistos. All three lived in Antioch in the third century and suffered during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian. Cyprian was an outstanding pagan sage and wise man. He was often asked for help. He solved human problems with the power of demons and, according to legend, was so successful in this that the prince of darkness himself promised him a princely title after his death.

One day, he was approached by a young man in love named Aglaid, the son of rich parents, who could not achieve reciprocity from the chosen one of his heart, Justina. The girl lived in the same city, but professed Christianity and took a vow of chastity. All the magical actions performed by Cyprian were instantly shattered by her faith and prayer. Shocked, he renounced magic and was baptized. After that, both were captured and executed. Their execution was witnessed by the Roman soldier Theoktistos, who openly declared his faith and was executed along with them.

On the same date, the church honors the memory of Blessed Andrew of Constantinople, the fool for Christ's sake, who lived in Constantinople in the 10th century. According to the angel's revelation, he accepted the feat of foolishness, voluntarily choosing a life of poverty and contempt. The saint wandered in rags for many years, patiently enduring hunger and cold, and distributed alms to those in need. For his deep humility, he was awarded the gift of foresight and prophecy. Blessed Andrew was also honored with the miraculous appearance of the Most Holy Theotokos in the Blachernae Church, which formed the basis for the feast of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos.

Prayers on October 15th

The Holy Martyrs Cyprian, Justina, and Theoktistos are revered as protectors from evil spells, witchcraft, and spiritual blindness. They pray for protection from the actions of psychics and sorcerers, deliverance from prodigal passions, protection from enemies and abusers. Blessed Andrew of Constantinople is considered a prayer book to God for people. The saint is asked that, while in the Mansions of Eternity, he should not cease to pray for the salvation of souls and strengthen his appeals to the Lord with his prayers.

Prayer to Cyprian, Justina and Theoktist

"O Holy Hieromartyr Cyprian and Martyr Justino! Hearken to the humble supplication of him. For you have ended your temporary life as a martyr for Christ, but you do not depart from us in spirit, but always, according to the commandment of the Lord, teach us to march and bear your cross patiently, helping us. Behold, you have acquired boldness towards Christ God and His Most Pure Mother. Therefore, even now, you will be prayer books and intercessors for us, the unworthy (names). May your intercession keep us safe from demons, magi, and evil men, glorifying the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen to that."

Prayer to Andrew of Constantinople

"Oh, holy servant of God, blessed Andrew! Having labored with a good deed on earth, you have perceived in heaven the crown of righteousness, which the Lord has prepared for all who love Him. Looking at your holy image, we rejoice at the glorious end of your residence and honor your holy memory. But you, standing before the Throne of God, accept our supplications and offer them to the All-merciful God, that He may forgive us every sin and help us against the wiles of the devil, so that, having been delivered from sorrows, diseases, troubles and misfortunes, and all evil, we may live piously and righteously in our present age and be worthy of your intercession, even if we are unworthy. May you see the good in the lands of the living, glorifying God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen to that."

Earlier, Izvestia told what they pray to the Monk Roman the Sweet Singer.

Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»

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