Folk signs for May 22: 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 May 22 and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.
Folk signs for May 22
In Russia, on May 22, the holiday of Nikola Veshny (or Summer) was celebrated. In the national consciousness, this day symbolized the final establishment of spring and the transition to active field work. It was believed that after Nikola Veshny, the earth was finally warming up, and the frosts would not return. In the old days they used to say: "Be strong before Nikola, but live with Nikola."
In the old days, many rituals aimed at protecting livestock and future crops were associated with Nikola Veshny. The main event was considered the first pasture of horses. The animals were sprinkled with holy water to protect them from diseases. The single guys, having gathered in an artel, went into the field, lit bonfires and guarded the herd. Later, the girls joined them.
In some regions, communal meals were held outdoors, where bread and dairy products were shared. It was believed that generosity on this day would bring prosperity for the whole year. On the holiday, the rite of "going to the grave" was also performed: peasants walked around the sown fields and read special spells to protect the seedlings from spoilage and the evil eye.
Weather signs in the old days determined what the summer and the future harvest would be like. If the day was clear and warm, a good hay harvest was expected. Rain was considered another good sign. This observation is reflected in the saying: "It's raining on Christmas Eve — bread will be good."
Other signs of the day:
- morning dew is plentiful — for good vegetable growth;
- frogs croak loudly — for a warm and humid summer;
- clear skies without wind — by dry June;
- bees are actively flying — for the gardens to bloom soon;
- The wind increases in the evening, leading to a change in the weather.
What not to do on May 22
On the day of Nikola Veshny, there were certain prohibitions. Our ancestors believed that their violation could lead to crop failures and other troubles. For example, on this day they tried not to be lazy, because, according to beliefs, idleness led to poverty. In addition, rough treatment of animals, especially horses, was not allowed. Otherwise, it promised diseases and livestock deaths.
What else can not be done on May 22:
- To be sad is to spend the rest of the year in tears and despondency.;
- Starting things without prayer won't work.;
- borrowing leads to financial difficulties;
- swearing in the house is a source of unhappiness in the family;
- to refuse help — luck will turn away.
What is the church holiday on May 22
On May 22, the Orthodox Church celebrates the transfer of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker from Myra in Lycia to the city of Bari. This event took place in 1087, when Italian merchants, saving the shrine from destruction by the Seljuk Turks, transported the relics of the great saint to the city of Bari, where they rest to this day.
In the Orthodox tradition, this day is considered one of the main holidays dedicated to St. Nicholas. Solemn divine services are held in churches, prayers and akathists are read in honor of the saint, during which they remember his mercy and numerous miracles.
On the same date, the Martyr Christopher of Lycia is venerated. He lived in the third century and suffered for his faith during the persecution of Christians. According to legend, Christopher was distinguished by his extraordinary strength and at first served the pagan ruler. Having converted to Christianity, he renounced his former life and openly confessed his faith.
History has preserved the story of how, through Christopher's prayer, bread multiplied in the desert for hungry travelers, and the dry cane in his hand suddenly blossomed. The miracles performed by the saint converted many pagans to Christ. For this, he was brutally tortured and executed.
Prayers on May 22
To St. Nicholas with requests for help in difficult life situations, protection on the road, healing and family well-being. The Martyr Christopher is asked for protection, strengthening of faith and deliverance from fears. Both saints are considered intercessors before the Lord, who respond to sincere prayer and support believers throughout their lives.
Prayer to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
"O All-good Father Nicholas, to the pastor and teacher of all who flow to your intercession by faith and call upon you with warm prayer. Strive quickly and deliver the flock of Christ from the wolves that destroy it; and protect every Christian country and preserve it with your holy prayers, from worldly rebellion, cowardice, invasion of foreigners and internecine warfare, from famine, flood, fire and vain death; and just as you had mercy on three men sitting in prison and delivered them from the king's wrath. and by the crucifixion of the sword, have mercy on me, and by your mind, word, and deed, while I am in the darkness of sins, deliver me from God's wrath and eternal punishment, so that through your intercession and help, through your mercy and grace, Christ God may grant me to live a quiet and sinless life in this place and deliver me from this standing, and make me worthy of the right hand with all the saints. Amen to that."
Prayer to Christopher of Lycia
"O holy servant of God, Martyr Christopher! Having labored with a good deed on earth, you have perceived the crown of righteousness in heaven, and the Lord has prepared it for all who love Him. In the same way, looking at your holy image, we rejoice at the most 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 land 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 which saints are remembered on the feast of Ivan the Long.
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