It was forbidden to wash your hair and cut your nails on the day of Artamon Serpentine: signs and prohibitions on September 25, 2026
The Orthodox Church dedicates September 25 to the memory of the Hieromartyr Autonomy, Bishop of Italy, who lived in the fourth century. On the same day, the feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Mother of God is celebrated and the transfer of the relics of righteous Simeon of Verkhotursky is remembered. In the national calendar, the date was named Artamon Zmeevik.
Autonomy lived in an era of brutal persecution of Christians under the emperor Diocletian. Leaving Italy, he settled in Bithynia, where he continued his apostolic ministry and converted many pagans. His preaching was so successful that a large community was formed for which he built and consecrated a temple in the name of Archistratigus Michael. When the emperor ordered the capture of Autonomy, he retired to Claudiopolis, and then returned to Soreya. Once during the divine service, the pagans broke into the temple, dispersed the worshipers, and the saint was killed after torture, staining the altar with his blood. The body of the martyr was pelted with stones, but the deaconess Mary took him out and put him in burial. Later, the relics of the saint became famous for miracles and healings.
In Russia, Saint Avtonom was called Artamon, and the day of his memory was named Serpentine. This name is associated with natural observations: by the end of September, the snakes finally crawled into forests and burrows, preparing to wait out the winter underground. The people said that Artamon last time the snake let go, and then shuts them in the depths of the earth to the castle. This day was considered the border when nature was finally preparing for winter. Peasants completed field work and collected arboretum, which after the first frost was poured with special force.
The main thing of the day was the gathering of arrows. The berries were removed carefully, trying not to damage the branches: to cause the tree pain was considered a great sin. From the ash made blanks for the winter, cooked jam, prepared healing tinctures and useful desserts with honey. Here is what was considered useful and beneficial:
There are many bans associated with the day, and most of them were associated with snakes:
The weather on this day was judged on how autumn and winter will be. Here are the most interesting observations:
Dreams on the night of September 25 are especially symbolic. This period is associated with the autumn equinox, when light gradually gives way to darkness.
Dreams of this night show that it is important to close or complete in order to move on with ease. The stories may reflect what you’re letting go of: old resentments, unnecessary connections, or outdated goals.
