Folk signs for April 21: 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 April 21 and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.
Folk signs for April 21
In Russia, Rodionov Day, or Rodion Ice Breaker, was celebrated on April 21. The name of the holiday is associated with the active melting of ice on rivers and lakes. The day was of great importance for agriculture and daily life. It was believed that if the ice on the reservoirs breaks down quickly and leaves, then the year will be prosperous and fruitful.
The housewives began actively cleaning the yard, taking out excess garbage and preparing for the summer season. The men were checking agricultural implements and starting the first work in the field. The peasants also washed their faces with melt water, believing that it gives strength and health.
Special attention was paid to weather signs. In the old days, rivers and the weather were closely monitored on Rodionov Day to determine what spring and summer would be like. The people said: "Rodion breaks the ice — invites spring into the house" and "Like Rodion, so is summer."
People went out to the water, listened to the ice crackle and watched it move with the current. For example, if the ice on the river left together and quickly, it promised a warm and fruitful summer. And if it was delayed or broke down slowly, they waited for a prolonged spring and possible cold weather.
Other signs of the day:
- clear sky in the morning — for a dry and warm summer;
- fog over the water — for rainy weather in the coming days;
- birds are actively singing — towards sustainable warmth;
- strong wind — to change the weather;
- the water in the river is noisy and bubbling — it will soon warm up.
What not to do on April 21
Our ancestors believed that nature is especially sensitive on the Rodion Icebreaker holiday, so any careless action could lead to crop failures or diseases. For example, people avoided quarrels and conflicts so as not to "wake up" negative energy. They also tried not to start important business if the weather was unstable — this was considered a bad sign.
What else can not be done on April 21:
- throwing garbage into the water leads to diseases and misfortunes;
- being lazy and postponing work leads to poverty;
- to refuse help is to lose luck.;
- ignoring natural signs leads to mistakes in business.
What is the church holiday on April 21?
The Orthodox Church on April 21 (April 8, Old Style) honors the memory of the Apostle of the Seventy Rodion (Herodion) Of Patras. According to his life, he was a relative of the Apostle Paul and invariably accompanied him on the most difficult missionary journeys.
For the zealous spread of Christianity, the Apostles Peter and Paul appointed him bishop in the city of Patras (in the Peloponnese), where he converted many pagans and Jews to the true faith. Herodion's preaching enraged the idolaters, but he remained firm in his faith. For his beliefs, the saint suffered suffering and martyrdom.
On the same date, St. Niphon of the Caves, Bishop of Novgorod, is commemorated. He lived in the 12th century and became famous as a wise pastor and spiritual mentor. Nifont was a monk of the Kiev Caves Lavra and was distinguished by a strict ascetic life.
Later he was appointed bishop of Novgorod, where he was actively engaged in strengthening church discipline. He took care of the spiritual enlightenment of the flock and defended Orthodox traditions. The saint left a significant mark in the history of the Russian Church.
Prayers on April 21st
The Apostle Herodion is asked for help in strengthening faith, protection from spiritual temptations, and guidance on the right path. They pray to Saint Niphon for wisdom, help in difficult life situations, for health and peace of mind.
Prayer to Rodion of Patras
"O Holy Apostle Rodion, chosen disciple of Christ and zealous preacher of the Gospel! Hear us, sinners and unworthy, who run to you with faith and ask for your help. You, faithful companion of the Apostle Paul, have endured great labors for the glory of God, endured suffering, and accepted the crown of martyrdom. Pray to the Merciful Lord, may He forgive us our sins, voluntary and involuntary, may he strengthen our faith and guide us on the path of salvation. Ask the Lord for our mental and physical health, peace and prosperity, deliverance from sorrows, troubles and misfortunes. Help us in our deeds, so that they may be for the glory of God and for the benefit of our neighbors. O Holy Apostle Rodion, do not leave us in difficult circumstances, but be our speedy helper and intercessor before the Throne of the Most High. Yes, through your prayers, we will also be worthy of the Kingdom of heaven and glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen to that."
Prayer to Niphon of the Caves
"Oh, Holy Father Nifonte, God's servant and good shepherd! Hear us who run to you with faith and love, and do not forsake us in your prayers before the Lord. You loved Christ from your youth, labored in the monastery of the Caves, spending your life in fasting and prayer, and were appointed pastor of the Novgorod land. Pray to the Merciful God, may He grant us sincere repentance, strengthen us in the Orthodox faith and guide us on the path of salvation. Ask for peace of mind, patience in our sorrows, help in our labors, and well-being in our lives. Pray to the Lord, may He deliver us from troubles, diseases and all kinds of evil, and may He keep us under His roof. O Saint Niphon, do not forsake us, who are unworthy, but be our intercessor and intercessor before the Throne of God. Yes, through your prayers, let us be granted eternal life and glorify the Holy Trinity forever and ever. Amen to that."
Earlier, Izvestia told what prayers are read on Shark's day.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
