Folk signs for January 16: what can and cannot be done

In Russia, signs and beliefs were given special importance. They were used to determine when to start field work, when to prepare for winter, take care of the house and play weddings. Every day of the national calendar was full of rituals and superstitions. Izvestia tells about the signs for January 16 and the church holidays that fall on this date.

National omens for January 16, 2026

In Russia, Gordeyev Day was celebrated on January 16. The holiday fell at the height of Yuletide, a special period between Christmas and Epiphany. The ancestors believed that at this time the line between the worlds was thinning, which contributed to the rampant evil spirits. People were having fun and guessing, but at the same time they were taking measures against evil forces. It was believed that on January 16, witches, starved during the winter, came to milk other people's cows, depriving the owners of milk. A tallow candle was hung over the gate for protection, and the brownie was treated to bread or porridge, asking to protect the cattle.

On Gordeyev Day, the housewives prepared oatmeal porridge with milk for the cattle, "so that the milk would not be transferred." People should definitely eat a spoonful of cottage cheese to attract prosperity and improve their health. The day was also favorable for bathing procedures, which, according to popular beliefs, cleansed not only the body, but also the soul. Unmarried girls were guessing at their betrothed, hoping to find out what their future spouse would be like.

On January 16, the ancestors paid attention to various weather signs. It was believed that the weather on St. George's Day could determine what the first month of spring would be like. If it was frosty and clear on the holiday, they were preparing for a dry and cool March, while the thaw promised wet and changeable weather.

Other signs of the day

• snow during the day — the night will be frosty;
• bright sun — for a cold snap soon;
• A clear, well—defined month leads to prolonged frosts.;
• The sun sets in a cloud, leading to heavy snowfall;
• smoke from the chimney is spreading on the ground — the frosts will intensify;
• A titmouse knocks on the window — good news.

What not to do on January 16

In order not to bring troubles, illnesses and financial losses on themselves and their family, the ancestors adhered to a number of strict prohibitions on St. George's Day. During the holiday, they tried to avoid negative emotions, especially anger and pride — it was believed that they made a person vulnerable to witches. Also, on January 16, they tried not to tell anyone about good dreams, otherwise they would not come true.

What else can not be done on January 16

• bragging about your own or your children's successes — everything that a person is so proud of can disappear.;
• Talking about your plans is a risk of attracting the evil eye.;
• cleaning and taking out the trash — you can "throw out" prosperity and luck from the house.;
• starting new projects and investing money leads to financial losses;
• receiving guests and going to visit can attract the attention of evil spirits.;
• doing needlework can "confuse" your luck.

What is the church holiday on January 16?

On January 16, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of the martyr Gordius of Cappadocia, who lived in the late III – early IV century. He grew up in a devout Christian family and joined the military after coming of age. Thanks to his courage and prudence, the young man achieved significant success and soon became a centurion. But when severe persecution of Christians began under the Emperor Licinius, Gordius refused to continue his service and retired to the desert to prepare for confession of faith by fasting and prayer.

In 320, during a lavish pagan festival in honor of the god of war Mars, Gordius went to the city square and openly declared himself a Christian, refusing to worship idols. He was captured, but despite persuasion and torture, they could not force him to renounce Christ. The martyr was sentenced to death and beheaded.

Prayer for January 16

Orthodox believers pray to the Holy Martyr Gordius of Cappadocia on January 16. He is asked to strengthen faith, help in making important decisions, healing from ailments and a positive outcome of any business.

Prayer to the Martyr Gordius of Cappadocia

"O holy servant of God, martyrdom! Having labored with a good deed on earth, you have perceived in heaven the crown of righteousness, which the Lord has prepared for all who love Him. Looking at your holy image, we rejoice at the 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 lands of the living, glorifying God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever and ever. Amen to that."

Earlier, Izvestia reported on the signs of the Sylvester Day national holiday.