Folk omens on November 28 are closely related to weather conditions and horses. The former tell you what to expect from the coming winter, while the latter predict good events and good news. In addition, this day falls on the beginning of the Nativity Fast, and therefore has certain traditions.
Customs
- On November 28, three great martyrs have been venerated in Orthodoxy for many years: Somon, Guria and Aviv, who are considered the patrons of the family and home. On this holiday, women pray for protection from an embittered husband. With requests, they turn to the icon of St. Guria, behind which a piece of incense is previously hidden.
- Attention is paid to workhorses, faithful helpers in hard work – they are entitled to a festive portion of oats. In addition, the harness and equipment in the stable are carefully checked, the stalls are cleaned. If on this day a child was born in some family, then they bring a bale of hay and a measure of oats as a gift. It is believed that if you are greedy, your horses will start to hurt.
- On the feast of Samon, Guria and Aviv, those with toothache or poor eyesight turn to the saints with a prayer for deliverance from these diseases.
- On November 28, it was customary to take a steam bath. The Orthodox believe that whoever has spent enough time in the bathhouse and properly cleansed the body will have good health throughout the year.
- If the weather is damp and there is a lot of dirt on the roads, people say that 'winter comes on a piebald mare and drives away evil spirits.' It is believed that evil spirits are afraid of a harsh winter, and therefore on November 28 they leave the earth.
Signs
- According to popular beliefs, if on November 28 snow covered the ground with a dense carpet, then it will lie until spring.
- If there is a lot of snow, the signs promise a good harvest.
- If sparrows scurry about on November 28 and warm their nests with fluff, folk signs promise severe frosts soon.
- On Guryev day, a strong gusty wind blows – this weather will continue until December 19.
- If it is warm and cloudy on November 28, it is raining or sleet is falling, the signs promise a rainy May.
- According to the signs, if the sunrise is colored red, a blizzard is expected in the near future.
- If you heard the loud neighing of horses, this is good.
- A horseshoe was found during cleaning in the stable – good news awaits.
- According to signs, if severe frosts are observed on November 28, evil spirits left the earth on this holiday.
- If the clouds float too low, the weather will soon become overcast and damp, high – dry and clear.
The beginning of the Nativity Fast
On November 28, Orthodox Christians celebrate the beginning of the Nativity Fast. On this day, according to traditions, it is not allowed to conduct empty conversations, have fun, quarrel and provoke a conflict. Believers spend their time at work and read prayers, which is a guarantee of cleansing the soul from impurity.
The first morning of the Nativity Fast begins with a prayer that empowers believers:
'The Christmas fast begins, my soul and body are cleansed. I pray to You, Almighty, and I ask you to save me from evil and unkind thoughts. Give me the strength to endure difficult trials. Send me your blessing. Amen'.
According to custom, the first day of fasting is celebrated with a modest feast. Housewives cook poor kutya (always on water). The menu on November 28 is rather meager. Meat dishes, fish and alcohol are prohibited. Those sitting at the table read a prayer and thank the Lord for his deeds and kindness.
Traditionally, on November 28, Orthodox Christians help the homeless and the weak. Poor people were treated to food or provided with things (for example, warm blankets, outerwear, shoes). If this tradition is neglected, luck will leave you next year.
Birthday 28 November
On Guryev's day, the name day is celebrated:
- Gregory;
- Peter;
- Nikita;
- Nikolay;
- Barbara.
According to popular belief, people who bear these names are hardworking owners and never sit around.
People born on November 28 are advised by folk signs to wear jasper as a talisman. This stone will protect the owner from the evil eye, damage and charge with positive energy.
November 28 is considered the beginning of a new life. On the first day of the Nativity Fast, everyone should pay attention to spiritual development and improvement: to do good deeds, be patient, learn humility and meekness. This behavior helps to cleanse the soul before Christmas.
