On August 5, according to the new church calendar, Orthodox believers honor the memory of the martyr Eusigny of Antioch, and also celebrate the fore-feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord — one of the twelve greatest feasts of the Church.
According to the old style, on this day (August 18), the holy martyrs Anfirus and Fabian, the martyr Pontius the Roman, the martyrs Cantidius, Canditianus, and Sibelius, as well as the righteous Nonna, mother of Saint Gregory the Theologian, are also commemorated.
The Life of Saint Eusignius
Eusignius lived in the 3rd century, was a Roman soldier and a Christian. According to legend, he saw a cross of stars in the sky, after which he emerged victorious from every battle. In adulthood, he left military service and returned to his native Antioch, where he dedicated his life to prayer and fasting.
During the reign of Emperor Julian the Apostate, known for his persecution of Christians, Eusignius was brought to trial. Despite his 110-year-old age, he courageously denounced the ruler for apostasy. For this, the saint was executed.
Forepart of the Transfiguration of the Lord
The day before the Transfiguration is called the pre-holiday and is dedicated to preparing for the great celebration. Special prayers are read at services, and believers complete the preparation of baskets of fruit and honey for consecration on the Apple Savior.
Folk traditions and customs
People call August 5th Yevstig Day or Onion Day. It was considered beneficial to eat raw onions with bread and salt for health and a fresh look, and onion wreaths were hung in the house to purify the air. According to signs, sharing the onion harvest with neighbors is for recovery and relief from back pain.
Also on this day, lean dishes with apples are prepared, and honey and fruit are prepared for consecration.
What can't be done
The Church calls for avoiding backbiting, envy, anger, and refusal to help. The Assumption Fast is in progress, so believers are abstaining from fasting foods.
Signs of August 5
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Frogs croak loudly - there will be warming.
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The water in the river is foaming - it will rain in two days.
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The echo is heard far away - to sunny weather, close - to precipitation.
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The weather today shows what December will be like.
