On January 13, Orthodox Christians commemorate Saint Basil of Caesarea, a 4th-century theologian. This day is known as Vasiliev Kolyada or Basil's Eve. In the past, people would engage in divination with porridge, sing, drink, and dance, knowing that the merrier and more generous the evening, the more successful the year would be.
On January 13, Orthodox churches honor Saint Basil the Great (of Caesarea), who lived in Cappadocia in the 4th century. According to tradition, he was the inventor of the iconostasis and the author of many sermons.
During the persecutions of Christians, Basil openly defended Orthodoxy. Although his life was short, he left a significant legacy.
His theological works included discussions on various psalms, ascetic treatises, works defending the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, books on Baptism, and much more.
Vasiliev Kolyada: Folk Calendar
Basil's Eve, celebrated from January 13 to 14, along with the Old New Year, was considered one of the most joyful holidays. It coincides with the Christmas festivities—a time when people would engage in divination, trying to predict what the coming year would be like. Would it be truly happy and generous, or would they have to settle for less?
To attract money into the home, a coin was placed under the pillow on the night of the Old New Year.
Girls dreaming of marriage would try to see the faces of their intended in mirrors during this time.
The folk holiday dedicated to Saint Basil the Great was considered one of the most hospitable.
The day before, hostesses worked from morning until late evening, preparing as many dishes as possible. They knew that the more generous the feast on the holiday table, the greater the chances that the new year would be successful in every way.
On Basil's Eve, divination was done with kutya. If the pot with wheat or rice porridge cracked in the oven, and the kutya spilled out or the dish turned white, it foretold misfortune. However, if the porridge browned, the family members rejoiced, understanding that happiness and good fortune awaited them.
Despite the variety of meat and fish dishes, kutya was considered the queen of the feast. This delicacy was made from grains of wheat, nuts, raisins, poppy seeds, and honey. On Basil's Eve, it was customary to treat each other with kutya, thus reconciling with enemies and resolving conflicts.
Basil's Eve: Folk Omens
On Basil's Eve, or rather at night, one can predict what the weather will be like in summer. If the wind blows from the south, hot weather is expected; if from the north, bad weather.
A west wind promises an abundance of milk and fish, while an east wind indicates a good harvest of berries, fruits, and vegetables. A thick hoarfrost on the trees foretells a successful honey harvest.
Vasiliev Kolyada: What Not to Do
The older generations explained to the youth that Vasiliev Kolyada is a special holiday. It should not begin with conversations. In the morning, before starting a conversation, one must wash and tidy up. Otherwise, the whole year will pass in empty fuss and chatter.
Basil's Eve, or Vasiliev Kolyada, does not tolerate scandals. If they begin on January 13, they may drag on for the entire year.
On this day, it was forbidden to count small change or lend money. Violators faced ruin and sorrow. It was also not recommended to skimp on food. If you invite guests, be generous; otherwise, luck and prosperity will leave your home.
On Basil's Eve, one should not sit at the table in black clothing, to avoid mourning for the entire year. Women would change their outfits several times a day, and knowledgeable people claimed that if this was done at least three times, beauty and youth would adorn them for a whole year, until the next Vasiliev Kolyada.
Men also paid attention to their clothing on this day, but their task was to avoid losing their belts. Otherwise, their wives might start looking at other men and cheating on their husbands.
