The priest explained the connection of the Transfiguration with the Apple Savior and the consecration of fruits.

Priest Zhilyakov: the consecration of apples is an ancient, but not the main tradition of the Transfiguration

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 04:00

Photo: RIA Novosti/Alexander Kryazhev

Озвучить текст

Select important

Off

The Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, known in folk tradition as the Apple Savior, is often associated with the consecration of apples and other fruits of the new harvest. This tradition is not only an external attribute of the celebration, but also has deep historical roots. The dean of the Baltai district of the Saratov Diocese, Priest Oleg Zhilyakov, told Izvestia about this on June 16.

The priest noted that the custom of bringing the first fruits of the harvest existed in the Old Testament Jewish tradition.

"The Jews brought the first fruits to God as a sign of gratitude. In Christianity, this tradition has been preserved and given a new meaning. It is during this period, in August, that we harvest fruits — apples, honey, nuts. People brought them to the temple, consecrated them, and thanked the Lord for giving them these fruits. After all, nothing happens in our world or in our material life without the Lord," the priest explained.

He recalled that the names of the three August Saviours come from the name of the Savior and are associated with important church holidays. At the same time, the names that are familiar to the people — Honey, Apple and Nut Saviours — are not ecclesiastical and do not convey their deep theological meaning.

The priest also stressed that the consecration of fruits is of secondary importance. According to him, this custom is not mandatory for participation in the Transfiguration, but only complements it. In this regard, he urged not to reduce the Transfiguration of the Lord only to the consecration of apples.

"The main thing on this day is to visit the temple, take communion and pay attention to your loved ones. Because it is through love for our neighbor that we are transformed and become closer to God," Zhilyakov emphasized.