On November 8, according to the new style, Orthodox Ukrainians celebrate one of the most revered Christian holidays - the Council of Archangel Michael and Other Bodiless Heavenly Forces. According to the old Julian calendar, this date falls on November 21.
Archangel Michael is called in the Holy Scriptures “the leader of the army of the Lord” and the main fighter against the forces of evil. It is he who leads the heavenly army and is considered the defender of people, the intercessor and the guide of God's justice. On this day, the church honors not only him, but also other archangels: Gabriel, Raphael, Selaphiel, Uriel, Jehudiel, Barachiel and Jeremiel.
The name Michael is translated from ancient Hebrew as “Who is like God?”, that is, no one is equal to the Almighty. The word “angel” means “messenger,” and “archi” means the highest degree of service. Hence the title “archistratigus” — the commander-in-chief of the heavenly army. On icons, Michael is depicted in military armor, with a sword or spear, with which he defeats the devil.
In Ukraine, the Archangel Michael is especially revered. Hundreds of churches are named after him, and in Kyiv he is the heavenly patron of the city. The St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery, the coat of arms of the capital depicting the archangel, and a sculpture on Independence Square are symbolic reminders of his presence in the history and spiritual life of the country.
According to the old style, on November 8, the holy martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica, a disciple of the Apostle Paul, a miracle worker and patron saint of soldiers, is also honored. Despite the transition of the OCU to the new Julian calendar, parishes and communities in Ukraine have the right to independently choose which style to live their liturgical life by.
According to folk tradition, people pray to Michael for justice, healing, and help in difficult cases. It is believed that on this day, people's prayers in court proceedings or life's trials are especially strong. The holiday also marks the completion of field work, so since ancient times, Ukrainians have set a rich table, invited guests, and believed that the more friends come, the stronger the support will be throughout the year.
Among the everyday traditions is going to the bathhouse or swimming as a symbol of spiritual purification before winter. This day is also considered favorable for weddings: a marriage concluded on Michaelmas is considered blessed.
At the same time, there are also prohibitions. On this day, you cannot quarrel, get angry, envy, complain or wish someone harm. It is not recommended to undertake heavy work, especially using sharp tools: axes, knives, saws. According to popular belief, wounds received on this day take a long time to heal, so bread was not even cut - it was broken with hands.
Regarding the weather, folk signs say: from Mikhailov, real winter is already near. Our ancestors carefully watched the signs of nature:
hoarfrost in the morning - to severe winter frosts,
fog - to thaw,
sleet - to generous spring rains,
red dawn - to long cold spells.
According to ancient beliefs, if it snows on this day, it will be snowy on Easter. The people say: “Michael brought winter on a white horse.”
