November 21 is one of the most important dates on the calendar for Ukrainians. On this day, events that have defined the modern history of Ukraine are commemorated, major church celebrations are celebrated, as well as a number of international holidays. In the folk calendar, the date is traditionally associated with the transition from autumn to winter and beliefs about the future weather.
On this day, current and ancient traditions are intertwined. According to the new church style, November 21 marks the Presentation of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple - a holiday that is popularly called the Third Pre-Purity. It is associated with prayers for family harmony, female happiness, forgiveness of sins and healing. In ancient times, Ukrainians organized fairs, gatherings and festive festivities on this date.
The memory of the old church tradition is also alive: on November 21, according to the Julian calendar, the Day of the Archangel Michael was celebrated - the patron saint of the military and the defender of the heavenly host.
The world also celebrates a number of important dates today. The UN General Assembly celebrates World Television Day, emphasizing the role of the media in shaping a high-quality and responsible information space. Fishermen have their own professional holiday - World Fishing Day, which is dedicated to sustainable and humane fishing methods. Other international initiatives include Greetings Day, Cystic Fibrosis Day, Multiplication Table Day, Anti-Bullying Day, Vasectomy Day and No Music Day.
For Ukrainians, November 21 has another special significance - it is the Day of Dignity and Freedom, established to mark the beginning of the Orange Revolution of 2004 and the Revolution of Dignity of 2013. On this day, they honor the memory of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred and recall the historical path by which Ukrainians proved their loyalty to the ideals of democracy and freedom.
In folk beliefs, the date of November 21 was considered the border between autumn and winter. Weather signs on this day were traditionally associated with future frosts and the behavior of nature. It was believed that fog foreshadowed a thaw, and rain promised a short, inclement spring. The Third Holy Day was considered favorable for concluding deals, trade, and financial affairs.
At the same time, there were certain prohibitions. As on other major church holidays, it was not recommended to quarrel, do heavy work, do laundry, clean, or drink alcohol. It was not recommended to lend money, so as not to incur financial losses. It is also worth avoiding haste and rash decisions.
