On February 3, Orthodox churches honor Maxim the Greek — a renowned theologian, journalist, and translator. In the folk calendar, this day is called Maxim's Day, Maxim the Comforter. In the past, during this time, people remembered with kind words those who helped in difficult moments.
On February 3, Orthodox believers remember Maxim the Greek, who became famous for his works in religious journalism and translations of sacred texts. He was born in 1475 in Greece, in a small village called Arta.
Having received a good primary education, Maxim moved to Italy, where he deepened his knowledge of ancient Greek philosophy and language. He traveled to many countries and then decided to settle in a monastery, choosing Mount Athos for this purpose.
Later, at the invitation of Grand Prince Vasily III (the father of Ivan the Terrible), Maxim found himself in Moscow, where he engaged in translating theological literature. Among his works was the "Interpretive Psalter," which he edited, for which he was subsequently condemned as a bold free thinker. Accused of heresy, Maxim the Greek spent more than 20 years in captivity until he was allowed to return to the monastery on Mount Athos.
Tsar Ivan the Terrible, at the request of representatives of secular and spiritual authority, permitted Maxim the Greek to settle in the Trinity-Sergius Monastery, where he was later buried.
Folk Calendar: Maxim's Day
The folk holiday dedicated to the memory of Maxim the Greek was called Maxim's Day, Maxim the Comforter, or simply – Maxim.
Maxim's Day: What Should Be Done
People considered the venerable Maxim their protector and comforter. Knowing that the saint would not leave them in trouble, on February 3 (January 21 in the old style), they hurried to the church to pay him tribute and ask for help.
Both the rich and the poor, widows and orphans, youth and the elderly turned to the venerable one. While asking for help, they did not forget to thank those who had once supported them. Whenever possible, people tried to be helpful to their benefactors.
On Maxim's Day, it is customary to pray for the strengthening of family ties. In ancient times, spouses were supposed to go out into the yard, take each other's hands, and simultaneously shake the frost off a tree while saying, "What God has joined together, let no man put asunder."
Unmarried girls on Maxim's Day hurried to share freshly baked bread. It was believed that the more baked goods the young ladies distributed to the young men, the higher their chances of a quick wedding.
Married women baked pies on this day to treat relatives, neighbors, and travelers. They knew that those who did not hesitate to bake would attract luck and financial well-being into their homes.
Maxim's Day: Folk Omens
On Maxim's Day, one can predict what the weather will be like in the coming days and the harvest in the upcoming summer. If the sky is clear on this day, it portends frost and a poor harvest.
If the moon shines through the clouds, it is a good sign: "There will be good grain," people would say. A clear dawn also indicates a drop in temperature: if it is clear, real cold will come in a day or two.
On February 3, name days are celebrated: Maxim, Agnia, Anastasia, Anna, Evgeny, Ivan, Ilya. People born on this day possess a special charisma. Despite their attractive appearance, they are considered good spouses. Men are excellent hosts, faithful husbands, and caring fathers, while women are wonderful housewives, sensitive mothers, and devoted wives.
What is Forbidden to Do on Maxim's Day
In ancient times, even small children knew that on Maxim's Day, one should not lend salt. To anyone, even the closest ones. Lending salt could lead to the loss of well-being and luck. On this day, it is also forbidden to:
Gossip, quarrel, invent tales about people, even if they do not deserve kind words — this will lead to family problems.
Leave the house at sunset — this leads to the loss of marital trust.
Leave family members hungry — this leads to poverty.
Visit unfamiliar places alone — this leads to the loss of peace.
