Folk omens for October 27 - Paraskeva Pyatnitsa, Lnyanitsa, Gryaznikha
History of the holiday
Paraskeva Pyatnitsa is one of the most revered saints in Russia. She is considered the patroness of women, marriage, childbirth, and healing. The holiday of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa is celebrated on October 27 (November 9 according to the new style).
On this day, it is customary to go to church, pray to Paraskeva Pyatnitsa, and ask for her intercession. Women also bake special bread called "pyatnitsa" and give it to the poor.
Traditions and rituals
There are many traditions and rituals associated with the holiday of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa. One of the most popular is the tradition of weaving linen. On this day, women would gather together to spin and weave linen. It was believed that linen woven on Paraskeva Pyatnitsa would have special healing properties.
Another tradition associated with this holiday is the ritual of "washing away sins". On the evening before Paraskeva Pyatnitsa, women would go to the river or lake and wash themselves and their clothes. It was believed that this ritual would cleanse them of their sins.
Signs
There are also many signs associated with the holiday of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa. For example, if it rains on this day, it means that winter will be cold and snowy. If the sun is shining, it means that winter will be mild.
Another sign associated with this holiday is the behavior of animals. If a dog barks at you on Paraskeva Pyatnitsa, it means that you will soon receive good news. If a cat crosses your path, it means that you will soon meet a new friend.
Conclusion
The holiday of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa is a major holiday in the Russian Orthodox calendar. It is a day to honor the saint, to pray for her intercession, and to celebrate the traditions and rituals associated with this holiday.