On December 21, Orthodox Christians commemorate the martyr Anfisa of Rome, who lived in the 5th century and suffered for her faith in Jesus Christ. In the folk calendar, this day is known as Anfisa the Needlewoman. In the past, the holiday was called the women's holiday, and on this day women engaged in needlework: spinning, sewing, cutting, knitting, and embroidering. To avoid the evil eye, these activities were to be conducted in solitude.
On December 21, Orthodox churches commemorate St. Anfisa of Rome, who lived in the 5th century. Little is known about her life. According to legends, the martyr's husband was an influential Roman official. She was baptized by St. Ambrose of Milan, whose feast day is celebrated on December 20.
When Anfisa's husband and his subjects began to persuade her to accept the Arian doctrine, which rejects the unity of God the Father and Jesus Christ, she firmly refused. By the order of the city governor, the young woman was imprisoned, where she was subjected to torture and humiliation. Since they could not break her will, the authorities decided to burn Anfisa at the stake.
Anfisa the Needlewoman: Traditions of the Folk Calendar
In the past, the holiday dedicated to the martyr Anfisa of Rome had various names. In some regions, it was called “Anfisa the Needlewoman,” in others — simply “Needlewoman” or “Anfisa.”
On this day, women and girls engaged in traditional female crafts: spinning, sewing, knitting, cutting, and embroidering. Everything related to needlework and accessible to skilled women's hands was held in high regard. To avoid losing their skills and to ward off the evil eye, these activities were performed in solitude.
To protect against damage, girls used embroidery. Magical patterns in the form of diamonds, triangles, as well as silhouettes of birds and animals worked real wonders.
If solitude was not possible, special rituals were performed to protect needlewomen from the evil eye. “On Anfisa, the girl sews, but an extra eye during that sewing — for the evil eye,” wise elders would say. To avoid damage, the wrist was wrapped with a silk thread. This was done to avoid pricking oneself with needles or pins. Healers claimed that such a ritual also protects against hiccups and yawning.
Anfisa the Needlewoman: What Should Be Done
On Anfisa the Needlewoman, girls and women would definitely visit the church. It was believed that St. Anfisa of Rome protects women from illnesses, misfortunes, celibacy, childlessness, and unfaithful husbands. In prayers to the saint, they asked for help in raising children and strengthening family ties.
Despite the fact that on this day it was customary to work in solitude, the evening should be spent with family. This was considered a guarantee of financial well-being, happiness, and good luck.
Anfisa the Needlewoman: Folk Signs
Anfisa the Needlewoman could predict the weather. Our ancestors knew: if it snows and a blizzard rages on December 21 (December 8 in the old style), the summer will be bad. However, if the weather is calm and clear, the upcoming winter will not bring troubles.
If in the morning the tits chirp loudly, it means there will be frost at night. If the birds hide under the roofs — they sense the approach of a snowstorm. If dogs show anxiety — it will soon snow.
Anfisa the Needlewoman: What Not to Do
Anfisa the Needlewoman has her own prohibitions. In the past, unfinished tasks were considered a bad omen. To ensure tranquility in the home, sufficient money and food, all tasks should be completed.
Greed was also considered a bad omen. On Anfisa the Needlewoman, one should not refuse requests for mercy. It is necessary to help, even in some small way.
