Folk signs: what not to do Volgograd on October 17, on Erofeev day
In folk tradition, the date was fixed as Erofeev’s day, or Erotheus Leshin: according to legend, it was at this time that autumn finally gives way to winter
On October 17, Orthodox believers remember Bishop Hierotheos of Athens, one of the earliest preachers of Christianity in Greece.
In the old days to this day tried to complete all the autumn troubles. Peasants insulated housing, put in order household equipment and finished urgent business. In the houses, women devoted time to needlework: spinning, weaving and sewing. Mutual assistance was considered an important part of the day: help to neighbors and good selfless actions were perceived as the key to future prosperity and prosperity.
There were a number of strict restrictions designed to protect from trouble. First of all, they categorically did not advise to go to the forest: they believed that on Erofeev day a forest bypasses its possessions, and a meeting with him threatens trouble. Because of the same threat, you should not let strangers into the house or start conversations with strangers. Especially careful were asked to be unmarried girls - it was believed that an evil spirit could appear under the guise of an ordinary person.
In order not to cause misfortune, people tried to avoid conflicts and not use swear words. The beginning of new business, moving or large expenses were not welcomed: according to popular beliefs, such steps could turn into serious losses. With the onset of darkness, it was recommended to stay at home, close the doors and not go out without an urgent need - so they protected the house from evil spirits.
Folk signs associated with the weather special signs. Red dawn at sunset was considered a harbinger of strong winter winds. If it snowed on October 17, the real winter was expected to come in about forty days. And the fog running on the ground promised a rich harvest the following year.
