Ban on gluttony and refusal to relatives and loved ones on the Day of Denis Pozimnego: traditions, and signs for October 16, 2026
On October 16, 2026, the Church commemorates the Hieromartyrs Dionysius the Areopagite, Bishop of Athens, Presbyter Rusticus and Deacon Eleutherius. In the national calendar, this date was called Denis Pozimniy. This day was associated with the release of autumn fevers, evil spirits that cause illness. People believed that before winter evil spirits are especially active, so tried to protect the house and loved ones.
Saint Dionysius lived in Athens, where he received a classical Hellenic education. Then he went to Egypt and studied astronomy. Together with a friend, he witnessed a solar eclipse at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. In Athens, Dionysius was elected a member of the Areopagus, the supreme court. When Paul preached in the Areopagus, Dionysius accepted the gospel and became a Christian. For three years he was a companion of the apostle, and later Paul made him bishop of Athens. After the death of the teacher, Dionysius went with a sermon to the Western countries together with the presbyter Rustic and the deacon Eleutherius. All three were captured and executed in Gaul in 96. The saint is credited with several works that had a great influence on Christian philosophy.
The day was devoted to good deeds, care for loved ones and preparation for winter
The day is associated with many prohibitions, the violation of which, according to legend, could attract trouble:
The weather on this day was judged on how autumn and winter will be. Here are the most interesting observations:
Believers pray for healing, both physical and spiritual, for protection from troubles, misfortunes, enemies and evil people. They ask about success in undertakings, in studies, work and other affairs, about the family world, about harmony in the family, the welfare of children and relatives. Pray for getting rid of addictions, for example, from alcohol or drugs, for help in the conception and birth of children.
If on the night of October 16 you dream of a native person to the third knee, you need after waking up to write down everything that he said in a dream and what happened. Do not hesitate with this, as the visions of this day disappear very quickly.
A good sign will be the dream in which you eat. What exactly and in what quantity, it does not matter. In reality, gluttony on this day will be prohibited, so such a dream will become a kind of training of willpower.
Dreams seen on the night of October 16 can be light and bright. But they will unfortunately be empty. The only benefit from them is a good mood in the morning, which is also important.
