On December 9, Orthodox Christians honor Saint George the Victorious, who lived in the 3rd century. This day marks the anniversary of the consecration of the church of the great martyr. In the folk calendar, this event is called Egoriy Zimniy. In ancient times, on Egoriy, our ancestors avoided long journeys, preferring to spend evenings with family.
On December 9, Orthodox Christians celebrate the anniversary of the consecration of the Church of Saint George the Victorious, located in Kyiv, and remember the holy martyr.
Saint George the Victorious has been considered one of the most revered saints for centuries.
According to his lives, he was born in the 3rd century in Cappadocia. His parents were devout Christians. The son achieved significant success in military service under Emperor Diocletian.
However, when persecutions against Christians began, he decided to distribute all his possessions to those in need. Addressing the ruler, he revealed that he was a Christian.
George was imprisoned and subjected to cruel torture, but he steadfastly endured all suffering. As he was dying, he crossed the statue of Apollo, and all the idols in the temple fell down.
The emperor's wife, falling to her knees, begged George to forgive her tyrant husband. In response, the ruler ordered her to be executed along with George.
Folk Calendar: Egoriy Zimniy
The holiday dedicated to Saint George the Victorious, which was previously covered in the online publication "Teacher's Newspaper," is popularly known as "Egoriy Zimniy," "Yuriev Day," and "Egoriy Kholodny." In ancient times, according to traditions, this day was to be spent with family. If someone from the family was leaving, a prayer service was always ordered in the church, as the day was considered unfavorable due to the possible influence of dark forces.
People came to church on Egoriy Zimniy for other reasons as well. At this time, one of the most beloved saints was honored, praying for help for their loved ones. Saint George the Victorious protects the unjustly condemned and the oppressed.
Egoriy Zimniy: Folk Signs
In ancient times, it was known that if wolves began to howl near the house, it was a sign of impending frosts. If frost is visible on the trees in the morning, a good wheat harvest is expected next summer.
If it is very cold outside on Egoriy Day, then winter will be harsh. And if there is a heavy snowfall at this time, May will delight with an abundance of greenery and flowers.
Egoriy Zimniy: What Not to Do
Egoriy Zimniy or Yuriev Day has its prohibitions. In ancient times, it was not recommended to go on long journeys, believing that one might not return from such a trip. On Egoriy Zimniy, elders forbade going outside at night, especially alone.
Wise people believed that by Egoriy Zimniy, one must pay off all debts; otherwise, one should not expect financial well-being in the near future.
It was also forbidden to offend animals, especially cats and dogs. Otherwise, they could fall ill, and their protectors would find a way to take revenge for their beloved pets.
