Remembrance Day of the Hieromartyr Zinovy: what can and cannot be done on November 12

On November 12, the faithful remember the Hieromartyr Zinovius, Bishop of Egeia, and his sister Zinovius. They lived in the third century in Cilicia, preached Christianity and accepted martyrdom for their faith. People called this day “Sinichkin holiday”: it was believed that by November 12, tits, snowmen and other wintering birds flew to the housing, and people were preparing to meet them with feeders and treats.

What to do on November 12th

The main tradition of the day is the care of birds. People made and hung feeders, poured grain, crumbs of bread and lard into them. It was believed that the birds fed on Zinovius, will protect the house from trouble and bring good luck. Also on this day it was customary to watch the birds: if tits flew to the house in flocks, waiting for a quick cold.

It was considered a good thing to help those in need - to give alms, feed the hungry, support the elderly. Good deeds in the family were welcomed: to reconcile with those with whom they were in a quarrel, to visit relatives.

Housewives on this day were engaged in household chores: cleaned, cooked, put in order winter things. It was also accepted to bake cakes and treat them to relatives and neighbors.

What not to do on November 12th

The strict prohibition concerned quarrels and profanity - it was believed that evil words against Zinovius could return to the person himself and bring discord into the house. It was not recommended to lend money and things: along with them, wealth could leave the house.

Do not be lazy and postpone household chores - they believed that those who idle on this day, all winter will freeze. They also avoided the long road: the traveler could be in trouble. Do not boast about their success, so as not to jinx luck.

Birds and animals were not harmed; it was thought to bring misfortune.

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