On November 29, Orthodox Christians commemorate the day of Levi Matthew, one of the twelve apostles. The disciple of Jesus Christ is the author of the Gospel of Matthew. In the folk calendar, this day is called Matvey's Day.
On November 29, the Orthodox Church commemorates the memory of Levi Matthew, who was one of the twelve apostles close to Jesus Christ. There is little information preserved about the saint. According to texts, before meeting the Lord, Levi Matthew worked as a tax collector, gathering taxes.
The encounter with Christ radically changed his fate. After being baptized, he began to preach the Christian faith, for which he was executed. His earthly life ended in the Roman fortress of Apasaros, located in modern-day Georgia. Levi Matthew is considered the author of the Gospel of Matthew, written in Aramaic.
Folk Calendar: Matvey's Day
In the folk calendar, the holiday dedicated to the apostle Levi Matthew is called “Matvey's Day” or “Wind Blower.” This name is not accidental. Usually, on November 29 (November 16 in the old style), the wind blows over the earth. At this time, thaws are often observed. “On Matvey, winter sweats,” people used to say.
What Can Be Done on Matvey's Day
The morning of Matvey's Day was traditionally started by our ancestors with a visit to the church. Praying to the holy apostle Levi Matthew, people asked for help in matters concerning family, child-rearing, and finances.
On this day, the Christmas or Philip's fast begins. Meat and dairy products are prohibited, but on November 29, the consumption of lean food with fish is allowed. Therefore, when visiting or receiving guests, one could expect a piece of some treat.
It was customary to visit relatives, friends, and acquaintances on Matvey's Day. In calm conversations about life, one could receive valuable advice. It was believed that recommendations received on this day always turned out to be correct.
Matvey's Day: Folk Omens
Our ancestors knew that on Matvey's Day, one should look at the sky. The weather would reveal itself through the clouds. If they hang low, prepare for the cold. If the clouds are high, expect warming.
If it starts to snow on Matvey's Day, it means that blizzards can be expected in the coming week. If it rains, winter will be damp and warm.
What Should Not Be Done on Matvey's Day
Matvey's Day does not tolerate solitude. Therefore, during this time, our ancestors visited each other. Wearing clothes inside out was considered a bad omen. If it is not removed quickly, one might scare away good fortune. The removed item should be thrown on the floor and walked over a bit. On Matvey's Day, it is forbidden to:
Wear red clothing — this leads to separation.
Talk through the threshold — this leads to a quarrel.
Look at oneself in the mirror for a long time — this leads to illness or loss of beauty.
Count small change — this leads to impending poverty.
On Matvey's Day, one should not quarrel or be angry with loved ones. If one does not stop in time, a quarrel can drag on for a long time, and reconciliation will be difficult. It is also strictly forbidden to walk in one sock or shoe on this day. Elders said that such an omen foretells illness or death of a relative.
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