On December 5, Christians remember Saint Procopius of Caesarea, who was born in the 3rd century and suffered for his faith. This saint, endowed with the gift of miracles, entered the history of Orthodoxy due to his good deeds. In the folk calendar, this day is called Prokopiev Day. In ancient times, women sought a magical herb at this time that helped to get rid of a hunchback and promote growth.
On December 5, Orthodox churches celebrate the Feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple, as well as the memory of Saint Procopius of Caesarea, whose earthly life ended in the 4th century.
According to legends, Procopius, previously known as Neanias, was born in Jerusalem. After receiving an excellent education, he served as a reader in the Church of Caesarea, where he translated the Holy Scriptures into Syriac.
The saint healed people from demons and various diseases. When the governor of Palestine ordered Procopius to be arrested in order to force him to sacrifice to idols, he resolutely refused. As a result, the pagans beheaded the defiant Christian.
Prokopiev Day: Folk Traditions
Prokopiev Day had various names: in some regions it was called “Vekhostav” or “Winter Procopius,” while in others it was known as “Philimon” or “Day of Procopius.”
If the day before our ancestors checked the sled paths laid after the snowfall, on Prokopiev Day they boldly set off on their journey, confident in the absence of unexpected difficulties.
On this day, it was customary to set winter markers in the snow to indicate the path. These markers served as a kind of “beacons,” helping travelers not to get lost. The roads laid on Prokopiev Day were considered reliable and remained until spring.
The installation of markers involved the entire village. After the work was completed, a communal celebration was held, where all the residents gathered. Housewives brought various treats from home, boasting about their culinary skills.
During the Christmas fast, which began on November 28, people abstained from meat and, on certain days, from fish dishes. However, people found joy in fasting food made from vegetables and flour. As a substitute for meat dumplings, they prepared vareniki filled with potatoes, mushrooms, fresh and sauerkraut.
Prokopiev Day: What Can Be Done
In ancient times, our ancestors would go to church in the morning. On December 5 (November 22 in the old style), they lit candles at the icon of the Virgin Mary. The day before, on the Feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple, Orthodox Christians honored the Theotokos, who brought the Savior into the world. Parents prayed to the Mother of God for the well-being of their children, and it was especially important to ask for help for their daughters.
They also prayed to Saint Procopius, who protects families from discord, helps maintain health — both their own and that of their loved ones — and avoids temptations. It was believed that on Prokopiev Day, one should carefully listen to the advice of relatives and acquaintances, as it would surely be useful in the future.
In ancient times, if there was heavy snowfall, women would go to the forest in search of the magical herb efiliya. Our ancestors believed that this plant helps short people grow taller and those with a hunchback to straighten up.
Prokopiev Day: Folk Omens
“Prokop has come — he has dug up the snowdrift, stepping on the snow — he is digging the road,” said our wise ancestors, who could predict the weather based on folk omens. They knew that if it was warm outside on Prokopiev Day, winter would be long and snowy.
If the water level in the hole rose above the ice, it meant that a thaw would soon come. If wolves approached the houses, winter would be frosty, and spring would be late. If jackdaws and crows gathered in large flocks and flew over the trees, it meant that snow would soon fall. If they landed on the ground, a thaw was expected.
Prokopiev Day: What Should Not Be Done
One of the main prohibitions of Prokopiev Day is the ban on financial transactions. During this time, it is strictly not recommended to lend money to neighbors or to borrow it oneself. Parting with finances on Prokopiev Day may lead to expenses throughout the winter.
It is also advisable not to borrow food and items, especially flour, cereals, salt, sugar, and disposable textiles. Our ancestors believed that this could lead to the loss of happiness and financial well-being.
Living flowers can be an undesirable gift on Prokopiev Day. If they are given, wise people advised taking them to an uninhabited place.
Moreover, elders did not recommend embarking on a long journey on Prokopiev Day, as such a trip could be prolonged.
Leave a comment