Folk signs for October 17: what can and cannot be done

In Russia, omens have been given special importance since ancient times. They were used to judge the weather, 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 Friday, October 17th, and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.

Folk signs for October 17, 2025

In Russia, Yerofey Leshegon, or Yerofeyev Day, was celebrated on October 17. According to ancient beliefs, at this time the goblin is preparing for hibernation. He gets especially angry and can drag a person into the forest. To protect themselves from evil spirits, the peasants performed special rituals: they sprinkled the dwelling with holy water and hung up amulets — bundles of onions and garlic, and when leaving the hut they took an aspen stake with them.

Since there was very little time left for Yerofey before the onset of frost, they tried to complete preparations for winter. The women took out warm clothes to "scare away" the frosts. The men harvested firewood and prepared a strong herbal tincture called Yerofeich. There are many proverbs and sayings associated with this period among the people: "The cold is stronger from Yerofey," "On Yerofey, only "Yerofeyich" warms the soul," and others.

According to the signs, the peasants determined the weather for the coming days and months. Crows were one of the harbingers of the approaching cold weather. If the birds are perched, it will soon get colder. And if the first snow fell on a holiday, then, according to observations, real winter will come in 40 days.

Other signs of the day:

• frost in the morning — the weather will be dry for a whole week;
• Sunset is red — strong winds are expected the next day;
• a swan flew by — the warmth will remain for a few more days;
• bullfinches can be heard singing — for bad weather;
• a horse snores — for bad weather, and if it snorts — for a good day.;
• The birch tree has not completely shed its leaves — the first snow is still far away.

What not to do on October 17th

On Yerofeyev Day, our ancestors took special care not to bring trouble upon themselves and their family. On this day, it was not recommended to leave the house unnecessarily, and if you had to go out, you had to cross yourself and take an amulet with you, for example, a cross or a branch of aspen to protect against evil spirits.

Miraculous prayer in the hour of sorrow and illness: words that strengthen the soul

What else can't be done on October 17th:

• quarreling, gossiping, and showing negative emotions can attract the attention of dark forces.;
• to do repairs or general cleaning — it is believed that such actions can anger a brownie.;
• going to the forest — our ancestors were afraid of the goblin and did not go into the thicket, so as not to disturb him;
• talking to strangers and letting strangers into the house — an evil spirit or a sorcerer may be hiding under their guise, capable of bringing the evil eye or spoilage.;
• to have a wedding, to confess your feelings or to woo — you will be disappointed in love.

What is the church holiday on October 17th?

On October 17, the Orthodox Church commemorates two saints: the Hieromartyr Hierotheus, Bishop of Athens, and the Venerable Prince Vladimir Yaroslavich, the eldest son of Yaroslav the Wise and the Venerable Princess Anna (as Irina). Both saints are revered by believers for their commitment to Christian values and good deeds.

It is known about Hierotheos that he was a member of the Areopagus, the highest court of Ancient Athens. He was baptized by the Apostle Paul, and later ordained bishop by him. Hierotheos was known for his righteous life and wise management of his flock, for which he received recognition as a saint. He died at the hands of pagans in the 1st century, entering the history of the church as one of the first Christian martyrs.

The Holy Prince Vladimir Yaroslavich is revered as the wonderworker of Novgorod. He began to rule Novgorod from the age of 14, gaining fame as a wise and pious ruler. Under him, Orthodox education was actively supported, new churches and temples were built, in particular St. Sophia Cathedral in Novgorod. The prince died at the age of 32, just 20 days after the consecration of the cathedral, and was buried within its walls.

The strongest prayer for the whole of October — these lines work wonders

On October 14, the Orthodox will celebrate the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos

Prayers on October 17th

In their prayers, Hierotheus of Athens, the Hieromartyr, is asked for the salvation of his soul, deliverance from calamities and temptations, strengthening of faith and help in fulfilling the commandments of Christ. They pray to the blessed Prince Vladimir Yaroslavich for protection from enemies and evil spirits, ask for help in difficult situations and protection from evil. They also ask for guidance on the path of a pious life and support in spiritual trials.

Prayer of Hierotheus of Athens

Troparion, glas 4

"Having learned goodness and being sober in all things, you were clothed with a good conscience in a priestly manner, you drew from a chosen vessel an ineffable one, and, observing faith, you performed an equal course, Hieromartyr Hierotheos. Pray to Christ our God that our souls may be saved."

Kontakion, glas 4

"As a pillar is unshakable, Hierotheos, do not be afraid of the reproach of enemies, but you have destroyed the fortress of charms, as a stone is honest, Father. Thus, the Lord crowns you with His life-giving and Divine right hand. Beg him for all of us."

Prayer to Prince Vladimir Yaroslavich

Troparion, glas 4

"You have appeared from me, to the God-wise Prince Vladimir, a divine vessel chosen by God, brought up with piety, you have kept the immaculate faith, and having built a temple of God's Wisdom in this Great City, you have offered Your body in It, and now, standing before the Throne of the Holy Trinity in heaven, pray send down great and rich mercy upon us."

Kontakion, glas 8

"Having lived soberly in your principality in Veliky Novgorod, faithful Prince Vladimir, you have been a good fruit in this life, ever blooming with virtue. For this you received eternal life in heaven, / but your body was glorified on earth by incorruption, and now your feast day is bright and fulfilling, we cry out to you with love: hail, great New City and the confirmation of the whole Russian land."

Earlier, Izvestia told what they pray to the Holy Martyr Dionysius the Areopagite.