Previous articleThe promise to Paraskeva: why 9 November should not give empty promises
November 9, according to the national calendar, is the day of the “Oath to Paraskeva”, also known as “Nestors” or “Voices”.
By this time in Russia finally established the sleigh way, and the people said: "From Nestor the man in the sleigh climbs.".
The main tradition of this day is to make promises and finish what you started. Our ancestors believed that if we had time to complete the promised work before the night, St. Paraskeva, whose memory is honored on November 10, would fulfill any wish. But breaking an oath was considered dangerous. It could have caused trouble.
A special ceremony was held by women: from 9 to 10 November, they weaved the “ordinary veil” in complete silence. They did it for the sake of healing loved ones or fulfilling cherished desires. The finished canvas was carried to the church in the morning.
The elderly hostess baked many cakes, praying to the Great Martyr for the protection of the family. Bakes were distributed to passers-by and those in need. The more people received the treat, the higher the chances of the saint’s help.
There are also unusual prohibitions. Creative people – actors, singers – can not accept flowers as a gift, otherwise fame will quickly fade. And doctors conducting operations should wear a glove first on the left hand, then on the right.
Folk signs help predict the weather: a steady wind on this day promises precipitation, frost on trees - frost, morning fog - thaw. And snow on the damp earth promises early spring.
Those born on November 9 have the gift of writing, and dreams seen in the morning can come true within a year.
