The main essence of this holiday is prayer, gratitude to God, and spiritual purification. At the same time, most prohibitions are folk customs.
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Makoviy, or First Savior, is one of the biggest summer church holidays. It is celebrated on August 1 (according to the Julian calendar). This year it falls on a Saturday.
What should not be done under any circumstances on this holiday, read in the TSN.ua article.
According to tradition, on this day the church honors the memory of the seven Maccabean martyrs, their mother Solomonia, and their teacher Eleazar. It is precisely because of the similarity in sound of the word “Maccabees” that the holiday began to be called Makoviy, First Savior, or Honey Savior in folk tradition.
Traditions on the holiday of Makoviy
In churches on Makoviy, the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord is honored. It is a symbol of the suffering of the martyrs. On this day, it is customary to attend church services and pray. In churches, the first harvest of honey, water, and also bouquets of wildflowers and herbs – “makoviychyky” – are traditionally consecrated.
Each plant in this bouquet has a symbolic meaning:
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Poppy – a symbol of abundance, protection, and family well-being;
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Mint – embodies peace, tranquility, and health;
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Thyme – strong health and purification;
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Wormwood – protects from all evil;
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Immortelle – symbolizes longevity and endurance;
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Marigold – health and solar energy;
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Chamomile – a symbol of purity, kindness, and peace.
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Spikes of wheat or rye – symbolize prosperity.
Makoviychyky after consecration were not thrown away. They were dried and kept at home near icons as a symbol of God’s blessing. Poppy seeds were often used in festive baking.
On Makoviy, baking with the new harvest of poppies and honey is traditionally prepared. The most famous dish is shulyky. In other regions of the country, they are also called lamantsi, lomantsi, or korzhi. Housewives also bake rolls and pies with poppy seeds.
What not to do on the holiday
Most folk prohibitions are not church rules. The main thing on this day is to visit the temple, pray, and spend time with loved ones. At the same time, on this day it is not recommended:
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To quarrel, to not swear
It is worth spending the holiday in peace, as any major church holiday is dedicated to prayer, reconciliation, and good deeds.
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To organize loud celebrations
On this day, the Dormition Fast begins, so believers try to spend the day with restraint, without excessive entertainment.
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To overburden oneself with heavy physical labor
This is an old tradition to dedicate the holiday to God, divine services, rest, and communication with family. At the same time, if work is necessary (for example, due to profession or household duties), the church does not consider it a sin.
We remind you that in August, the church celebrates three Saviors – Honey (August 1), Apple (August 6), and Nut (August 16).
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