Folk signs for February 14: 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 Saturday, February 14, and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.
Folk signs for February 14th
According to the national calendar, February 14 marks Trifonov Day, also known as Trifon Myshegon. The holiday got its name because of the rite of "breeding" mice, which was often held in villages. Rodents caused great damage to the farm and ate up food supplies. Traditionally, on this day, the owners went around the barns and cellars to check how much grain and flour was left before the new harvest.
Since Tryphon Day fell on the Eve of the Presentation of the Lord, special candles were made in the houses, which were then carried to the temple for Candlemas to be consecrated. Such candles were called "Candlemas". They were considered a family amulet and were lit in difficult moments — during illness, severe thunderstorms, fires, difficult childbirth or other trials. It was believed that the light of a consecrated candle brings protection, strengthens faith and helps to survive danger.
A lot of observations were connected with the weather on Trifonov Day. It was believed that a clear sun promised a speedy spring, and a severe frost — prolonged cold weather. They said: "On Tryphon, the sky is starry — by late spring," "As Tryphon is, so is spring." If a cold north wind was blowing that day, prolonged frosts were expected. Warm weather, on the contrary, was perceived as a sign of rapid warming and early field work.
Other signs of the day:
- the cattle butts and worries in the barn — to the blizzard;
- The sparrows are chirping together for the snowfall.;
- The sky is starry — towards late spring;
- hoarfrost on the trees — for the harvest year.
What not to do on February 14th
Certain prohibitions were also associated with Trifonov Day. It was believed that a violation of traditions could lead to crop failures or troubles in the household. For example, it was not recommended to start major business without prayer, so as not to face setbacks. We tried to avoid conflicts, as quarrels on this day could drag on for a long time. Special attention was paid to the careful treatment of bread and grain.
What else can not be done on February 14th:
- leaving bread unattended on the table leads to losses;
- scattering grain leads to a bad harvest;
- plan important trades — they may turn out to be unsuccessful.
- refusing to help those in need leads to poverty;
What is the church holiday on February 14th?
On February 14 (February 1, Old Style), the Orthodox Church honors the memory of the holy Martyr Trypho of Apamea, or Nicaea. He lived in the 3rd century near the city of Apamea in Asia Minor. According to legend, Tryphon was distinguished from his youth by piety and the gift of miracle-working. He is credited with healing the daughter of the Roman Emperor Gordian from a serious illness. During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Decius, Trypho was captured and tortured for refusing to renounce his faith.
In the popular consciousness, Saint Tryphon became the patron saint of farmers, gardeners and winegrowers. In Russia, they prayed to him to preserve the harvest and protect the farm from pests. The image of the saint was often depicted with a falcon, which made him the patron saint of hunters. In the church tradition, he is revered as a martyr who remained faithful to Christ to the end. The saint was martyred around the year 250.
Also on February 14, St. Peter of Galatia, a Silent Saint who lived in the fifth century, is remembered. He came from a noble family and from his youth aspired to a secluded spiritual life. Peter took monastic vows and retired to the desert, where he labored in prayer and fasting. For his desire for silence, he was nicknamed the Silent One. It is believed that he possessed the gift of spiritual guidance and helped people with advice and prayer.
Prayers on February 14th
Prayers to these saints are perceived as support in the labors and trials that a person faces in everyday life. Saint Tryphon is most often approached with requests for help in household chores, crop protection, and getting rid of pests and diseases. They also pray to Him for the preservation of his property and the well-being of his family. St. Peter of Galatia is asked to grant patience, strengthening in faith and help in spiritual life.
Prayer to Tryphon of Apamea
"O holy Martyr of Christ Tryphon, hear now and at every hour the supplication of us, servant of God (names), and intercede for us before the Lord. You, once the daughter of a king, were tormented by the devil in the city of Rome, and you healed us: save us also from his cruel machinations all the days of our lives, and above all, intercede for us on the day of our last breath. Pray to the Lord that he may grant us, as partakers of eternal gladness and joy, that with you we may be worthy to glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Comforter of the Spirit forever and ever. Amen to that."
Prayer to Peter the Silent
Troparion, glas 8
"In you, Father, salvation is known, which is in the image: for you have received the cross, you have followed Christ, and you have taught us to despise the flesh, for it is passing away, and to be diligent for souls, things more immortal, so that your spirit may rejoice with the angels, Venerable Peter."
Kontakion, glas 2
"Having armed thyself divinely with purity of soul, and with unceasing prayers, for having firmly grasped the spear, thou didst break through the demonic army, O Peter, our father, and unceasingly pray for us all."
Earlier, Izvestia told what they pray to St. Nikita of the Caves.
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