On Saturday, August 16, Orthodox Christians in Ukraine celebrate the feast of the Transfer of the Not-Made-by-Hands Image of the Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople. In the folk calendar, this day is known as the Nut Saviour, or the Third Saviour.
Holiday history
According to legend, the king of Edessa, Abgar, who was suffering from leprosy, sought to obtain an image of Jesus. When the scribe tried to paint His portrait, grace did not allow it. Then Christ washed himself and wiped his face with a cloth, on which His image miraculously appeared. This cloth, known as the first icon, was brought to the king - and he was healed. Later, the shrine was transferred to Constantinople, where it became one of the main relics of the city.
What traditions have been preserved?
On this day, believers attend church services, pray for health, well-being, and a good harvest. Women ask the Blessed Virgin Mary for easy childbirth and protection for the family. In churches, it is customary to bless the fruits of the new harvest: nuts, apples, vegetables, pastries, and bread.
That is why the holiday was called the Nut or Bread Savior. On this day, there should be many dishes on the tables - as a sign of gratitude for the harvest and with the wish for abundance for the coming year. It was considered a good omen to gather guests in the house and give part of the treats to the needy.
What you can and can't do
There are not as many prohibitions as on other Saviors. The Church calls for avoiding quarrels, envy, laziness, and cruelty. You cannot cut your hair or nails - so as not to lose luck, and refusing help - this leads to poverty. You should also not be careless with bread: you must finish every piece, otherwise the family may have financial difficulties.
Work is not prohibited on this day, as it is harvest time, but it is better to avoid excessively difficult tasks.
Signs of the Nutcracker Savior
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If the cranes have already flown away, winter will come early.
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A large harvest of nuts means there will be plenty of rye next year.
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Calm water in the rivers - autumn will be quiet, and winter - without blizzards.
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A thunderstorm on this day promises a warm summer next year.
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The first nut of the new harvest must be eaten by yourself - this will protect against the evil eye.
It is also believed that seeing a snake on August 16 is a good sign for good luck.
