Folk signs: what not to do Volgograd on September 19, in Mikhailov day

The memory of the Archangel Michael is honored by the Orthodox on September 19, and in the folk calendar the date is known as Mikhailovo Miracle, Mikhailov Day or Mikhailovsky Frosts.

By Mikhailov’s day, they tried to finish all field work and not plan hard work: the day was considered a time for respite after a busy season and preparing the farm for winter. The housewives were engaged in checking stocks, insulating the house, putting clothes and shoes in order. The men inspected outbuildings, fences and working equipment.

The morning traditionally began with a visit to the church: parishioners came to the service and prayed to Archistratig Michael, the leader of the heavenly forces and the intercessor of believers, asking him for protection and help in difficult matters. Another good tradition was a fraternity – a joint meal of several families. On the common table were placed bread, cereals, vegetables, meat, chill, twigs, blueberries, pies with different fillings, as well as home preparations.

According to popular beliefs, on Mikhailov day was not worth taking up hard or meaningless work - the day was intended for rest and rest in order in the already begun affairs. There was a ban on washing the head: it was believed that this way you can “wash the mind” and become forgetful.

Special attention was paid to the atmosphere in the house: it was impossible to quarrel, swear, deny relatives and neighbors help. It was not recommended to start new serious cases until the old ones were completed, as well as to remember past grievances or wish anyone harm. The day was spent in peace and harmony.

The signs helped the villagers predict the weather for the winter. Frost in the morning was considered a sure sign of rapid cold. According to the fallen foliage, they also judged the nature of winter: if it lay face up, they waited for cold winter, if inside out, they hoped for warmer weather.