Forgetful November 1: Folk omens and traditions, what to do and what not to do
Introduction
November 1st is a day of particular importance in Russian folk culture. It is believed to be a day when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is especially thin, and when spirits and ghosts can freely roam the earth. As such, there are many superstitions and traditions associated with this day, both positive and negative.
Traditions and Customs
One of the most important traditions of November 1st is to visit the graves of deceased loved ones. People bring flowers, candles, and other offerings to the graves, and they pray for the souls of the departed. It is also believed that on this day, the spirits of the dead can visit their former homes, so people often leave food and drink out for them.
Another tradition of November 1st is to avoid doing any kind of work that involves sharp objects. This is because it is believed that on this day, the spirits of the dead are especially vulnerable, and they can be easily injured by sharp objects. For this reason, people avoid using knives, scissors, and other sharp objects on this day.
Do's and Don'ts
There are many other superstitions and traditions associated with November 1st. Some of the things that are said to be good luck on this day include:
- Seeing a spider
- Hearing a dog bark
- Finding a horseshoe
Some of the things that are said to be bad luck on this day include:
- Spilling salt
- Breaking a mirror
- Seeing a black cat
Conclusion
November 1st is a day of great importance in Russian folk culture. It is a day when people remember their deceased loved ones and when they take precautions to protect themselves from evil spirits. Whether or not you believe in the superstitions and traditions associated with this day, there is no doubt that it is a day that is rich in history and tradition.
