Folk signs for February 10: 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 Tuesday, February 10, and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.

Folk signs for February 10

In Russia, Ephraim's Day was celebrated on February 10. The holiday was closely connected with the house and its invisible guardian, the brownie. It was believed that it was on February 10 that this spirit should be especially honored so that he would protect the family from harm. The day was also called "Ephraim the baker" or "Ephraim the cricket intercessor," emphasizing its connection with the domestic spirit.

On the holiday, they tried not only to appease the brownie, but also to complete the main winter work before the arrival of spring. The men were checking the grain stocks, and the women were sweeping the trash out of all corners. The dwelling was often sprinkled with holy water, creating a bright atmosphere in it. They tried to do everything without too much fuss and fuss, so as not to disturb the brownie.

On Ephraim's Day, great importance was attached to weather signs, which served as an important guideline for future agricultural work. Severe frosts and snowstorms on February 10 were harbingers of a late and protracted spring. The abundant frost on the trees promised a rainy summer, and the bright, cloudless sun promised a good harvest.

Other signs of the day:

• The wind howls loudly in the chimney, leading to cold weather and frosts.;
• Smoke from a campfire or stove is spreading low above the ground, leading to a snowfall.;
• The forest on the horizon seems darkened by the thaw.;
• north wind — for a long winter; south wind — for a warm and early spring;
• the dog is whining for no apparent reason — to the approaching snowstorm.

What not to do on February 10th

There were also a number of strict prohibitions on the holiday, the violation of which, according to beliefs, could lead to domestic troubles and more serious problems. They were especially wary of actions that could disturb and anger the "owner" of the house. For example, it was strictly forbidden to kill insects, especially crickets. These creatures were considered messengers or even friends of the brownie, helping to guard the dwelling.

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What else can not be done on February 10:

• To be lazy and idle is a day that requires hard work and taking care of the house.;
• throwing things around, leaving clutter and dirty dishes leads to discord in household and family affairs.;
• quarreling, shouting and swearing in the walls of the dwelling — the brownie will send various troubles.;
• Planning important things and starting new projects will be difficult and unlikely to bring success.

What is the church holiday on February 10th?

On February 10 (January 28, Old Style), the Orthodox Church commemorates St. Ephraim the Syrian, one of the most revered fathers of the Church and a teacher of repentance, whose words and prayers are believed to be able to soften the most hardened heart.

The saint lived in the 4th century in Mesopotamia. He came from a poor farming family. In his youth, Ephraim had a short temper, often quarreled and committed rash acts. This continued until he received admonition from the Lord, which guided him on the path of repentance and salvation.

Ephraim retired to the mountains, becoming a disciple of the famous ascetic and Saint James of Nisibis. He combined his ascetic labors with unceasing study of the Word of God and literary creativity. A special place in his legacy is occupied by the penitential prayer "Lord and Master of my life...", recited during Great Lent. He also left behind many spiritual poems and hymns.

On the same date, the patron saint of the Vologda land, St. Theodosius of Totem, is remembered. He was born in the 16th century in Vologda into a pious family. From a young age, Theodosius aspired to a monastic life and took vows at the Prilutsky monastery.

Later, he founded a monastery in honor of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Totma, becoming its first abbot. After his death in 1568, numerous healings began to be performed at the relics of the saint, and in 1798 his church glorification took place.

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Prayers on February 10th

They pray to St. Ephraim the Syrian for deliverance from the sin of despondency, protection from temptations, and the attainment of humility. He is also approached by all those who want to sincerely repent of their sins and start a new life. St. Theodosius of Totem is traditionally asked for healing from diseases, protection from troubles and enemies, and support in difficult moments.

Prayer to Ephraim the Syrian

"O servant of Christ, our Father Ephraim! Bring our prayer to the merciful and all-powerful God and ask us, the servants of God (names), from His goodness all that is for the benefit of our souls and bodies, right faith, hope beyond measure, love without hypocrisy, meekness and gentleness, courage in temptations, patience in suffering, prosperity in piety, so that we may not turn to evil the gifts of the All-merciful God. Do not forget, holy wonderworker, this holy temple (house) and our parish: preserve and keep them through your prayers from all evil. To her, O holy One of God, vouchsafe us to attain a good end and inherit the Kingdom of heaven, so that we may glorify the wondrous God in Our saints, to whom all glory, honor, and power belong, forever and ever. Amen to that."

Prayer to Theodosius of Totem

"O our good shepherd and Wise mentor, Reverend Father Theodosie! Hear us sinners who pray to you and call upon your speedy intercession for help <...> Deliver us, O servant of Christ, from the evil ones who come upon us, and tame the waves of passions and troubles that rise up against us, so that for the sake of your holy prayers we may not be overwhelmed and drown in the depths of sin and the mire of our passions. Pray, Venerable Father Theodosie, to Christ our God: may the Lord free the suffering Russian country from the fierce atheists and their power, and may He raise up the throne of the Orthodox rulers; may His faithful servants, who cry out to Him day and night in sorrow and sorrow, may He hear our painful cry and lead our life from destruction; may He grant us peaceful residence, remission of sins, salvation for our souls and great mercy. Amen to that."

Earlier, Izvestia told what they pray to St. Theodore the Studite.

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