Our ancestors had a special relationship with the autumnal equinox, which usually falls on the 22nd or 23rd of September. They considered this date a day of power. A person with knowledge could enlist divine support during this 24-hour period, gain health, and attract good fortune. It's no wonder that many ancient traditions, folk omens, and beliefs are associated with this September day.
What gives it its magical power? How should one spend the autumnal equinox, according to folk wisdom?
Autumnal equinox
Astrologers explain the magic of this date by the fact that during this period, the Sun “migrates” from the Northern to the Southern Hemisphere. At this point, the sun crosses the equator. At this moment, according to astronomical standards, autumn begins here, while for those living in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the beginning of astronomical spring.
A special feature of these September days is that the length of daylight equals the length of night. Beginning with the autumnal equinox, we will observe how daylight gradually gets shorter, and the nights correspondingly become longer. This will continue until the winter solstice (December 22).
Traditions of the day
Our Slavic ancestors held this day in high esteem, treating it as a holiday. It fell during the period dedicated to Veles, beginning seven days before the autumnal equinox and continuing for one week afterward.
The deity patronizing art, trade, and livestock was appeased and glorified in every way during these days. He was also seen as a source of wisdom. To appease Veles, butter made from cow's milk was offered to him as a sacrifice, and thick honey was drunk in his honor.
After the Christianization of Rus', this pagan celebration gave way to a religious one—the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. However, the people did not forget the ancient rituals of pagan times. They continued to bring rowan branches into their homes to protect them from evil spirits and to attract happiness, prosperity, and well-being. People also believed that a rowan branch hidden under a pillow was an excellent cure for insomnia.
By this date, people tried to complete all their chores, pay off debts, and clean the house. On this September day, it was customary to hold a feast to celebrate the completion of the harvest. According to tradition, housewives baked pastries on the autumnal equinox. It was customary to serve pies filled with cabbage, lingonberries, apples, and meat on this day.
According to ancestors, lingonberry pies brought happiness in love to the eater. Meat-filled pastries imbued the eater with strength and brought success in work. Apple pies were shared not only with family and relatives, but also with neighbors, acquaintances, and those in need. This was a good omen, promising well-being and prosperity to the giver.
Another tradition of our ancestors on this day was visiting the graves of deceased relatives. They would leave treats for the deceased at the cemetery: milk, pies, berries. Afterwards, our ancestors would bathe in the banya to cleanse their body and soul of all impurities.
Washing oneself with cold water before dawn on this day was considered a good omen. This was done to improve health and enhance beauty. It was also customary to walk barefoot in the morning dew to stay healthy, strong, and energetic throughout the year.
On this September day, young women would tell fortunes about their future husbands and perform rituals to find a partner. It was believed that a single girl should bring home an extra pillow and a towel for her future husband.
Prohibitions of the day
To avoid misfortune, our ancestors observed the following prohibitions on this day:
- did not lend or borrow money;
- did not quarrel with loved ones and close ones;
- did not gossip or slander;
- did not envy;
- did not refuse to help anyone;
- did not close the door in front of guests;
- did not start new businesses or enter into any deals;
- did not engage in summing up;
- did not feel sad or cry.
Signs of the day
People associate many weather signs with this day:
- as is this day, so is the autumn;
- an abundance of berries on a rowan tree means a rainy autumn and a cold winter;
- yellowed birches promise early frosts and a frosty winter;
- lots of acorns – for a snowy Christmas;
- On this day, cranes fly south – the winter will be harsh;
- a thunderstorm on the autumn equinox means a warm autumn.
To secure the favor of higher powers on the autumnal equinox, thank them for all the good things in your life. Spend this day in peace and harmony with others, in a good mood, and share your kindness with those in need. This will attract happiness and good fortune.
