According to folk tradition in the period from December 21 to December 24, the ancient Slavs celebrated the New Year, held various rituals in honor of the birth of the new Sun and Kolyada.
It was said that December 22 is the longest night of the year. After it, the duration of the light day gradually increases, and the night - is reduced. In the people it was December 22 was considered the beginning of winter. There were signs on December 22, the day of the winter solstice, on which it was possible to predict the future.
People's signs on December 22
In the old days this day was associated with pagan Gods and sacrifice. It was accepted to offer gifts to deities, to build a ritual bonfire with oak wood. Before the bonfire was built, special signs and symbols were cut out on logs connected with the onset of a new period of birth. The roots of living trees were poured with sweet drinks, and the branches were decorated with bread products. So people thanked the Gods and asked for a good harvest next year.
Signs on December 22, the day of the equinox, are mainly associated with farming:
- if there is frost on the branches on December 22 - there will be a good harvest of cereals;
- if cut off on this day, the branches of cherry, put in water, by January 7 flower - there will be a good harvest of fruit trees;
- what the weather is on December 22, the same will happen on January 31.
- If the snow on this day lies close to the fence - there will be a bad summer.
During the longest night, one could guess and engage in spiritual practices, make wishes, meditate and learn magic. It was permitted to divulge fortune , love, health, financial well-being, but it was forbidden to remove spoilage and the evil eye.
On the day of the solstice one could not take offense at being sad, swearing. On this day, on the contrary, you need to charge positive energy. Another sign for December 22: pregnant women should not need to leave the house without the need. It was believed that if they meet this day with sick or injured people - it's bad for the health of the unborn child.