On March 4, several events are celebrated in the world and in Ukraine. In the church calendar, this day is honored by the Rev. Gerasim of Jordan, and in the world, World Engineering Day is celebrated. In the folk calendar, this date is known as Gerasim Grakivnyk and is associated with the return of migratory birds.
According to church tradition, Gerasim of Jordan was a 5th-century hermit monk who became famous for his strict ascetic life and spiritual strength. According to legend, he healed a wounded lion, after which the animal remained by his side and became his faithful companion. Believers pray to the saint for health, spiritual strength, and help in overcoming bad habits.
March 4th is World Engineering Day, a day to celebrate the role of engineers and inventors in advancing technology and improving the quality of life. It also highlights the importance of combating obesity and celebrates several lesser-known thematic dates.
In the folk calendar, this day was called Gerasim Grakivnyk. Our ancestors believed that it was at the beginning of March that migratory birds, in particular rooks, returned from the south. Housewives sometimes baked cookies in the shape of birds to "call" spring.
Several weather signs are associated with this day. If cranes or swans appear in the sky, warming will soon come. Snow on this day is considered a sign of new frosts, and bright stars at night can portend spring floods.
There are also certain warnings in folk beliefs. It is believed that on March 4th you should not go on long trips, wash windows, or make expensive, thoughtless purchases. In church tradition, on this day, it is advised to avoid quarrels, envy, and resentment.
