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Intercession of the Blessed Virgin is important Orthodox and folk holiday of Ancient Rus

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Intercession of the Blessed Virgin is important Orthodox and folk holiday of Ancient Rus


14.10.2017

Fresco of icon-painter Dionysius Intercession of the Blessed Virgin//rossiyanavsegda.ru//wikimedia.orgOrthodox Christians celebrate the feast of Intercession of the Blessed Virgin on October 14th. It is one of the most significant fixed date feasts marked in the Ancient Rus since XII century. It is based on the story of appearance of the Blessed God Mother at times when Constantinople broke out war with Saracens.

The blessed fool Andrey and his disciple Epiphany witnessed the Mother of God soaring in the air in Vlakhernska church where her garments were stored. She prayed and put Her head cloak over the gathered believers in the church. The news about Her appearance spread instantly around Constantinople. Christians interpreted this vision as a mercy of God, raised their spirits and defeated the enemies.

Pre-Christian Rus finished all fieldworks at this day. People started preparations for a long winter, stoking furnaces and gathering in the evenings together. Special folk wisdom exists regarding this day. For example, if it snows on this day and the snow does not melt lying on the ground, it means that winter will come early this year and it promises good harvest. If it rains on this day, it means that the winter will be late and there will not be much snow. Thus, crops will not have enough water to gain enough strength.

Autumn wedding season started right after the feast of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin.

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