Orthodox Ukrainians celebrate three Saviors throughout the year, and the third of them — the Nut Savior — is approaching this month. This holiday, which combines religious traditions and folk rites, has its own history, symbolism, and list of prohibitions.
When is the Nutcracker in Ukraine?
The date of the celebration depends on the calendar. According to the old style, the Nut Savior fell on August 28, and according to the new style, it is celebrated on August 16. The official name is the Savior Not Made by Hands, or the Linen Savior. In the people he is also called the Bread Savior or the Savior on the Linen.
The holiday is associated with the legend of how the face of Jesus appeared on a cloth with which He wiped His face. This image is considered miraculous and capable of healing.
Traditions of the Nutcracker
On this day, housewives traditionally bake bread from the flour of the new harvest and carry it to the temple along with ears of corn and natural cloth for consecration. It is also on this day that they begin collecting nuts and preparing for winter - they do conservation work, sow winter crops.
Some believers buy and consecrate a cloth, believing that it will bring happiness and health to the home. In the evening, families gather for a festive dinner, which must include pastries with nuts.
What can't be done
The Nutcracker Savior, like other great church holidays, has its own prohibitions. On this day you should not:
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to quarrel and insult people;
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throw away food;
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refuse help;
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overeat.
You should also refrain from doing laundry, cleaning, and other heavy work — it's better to do all household chores the day before.
