We love winter not only because it is a snowy time. In December, we will find many dates during which a person is cleansed spiritually and has the opportunity to spend more time with loved ones. It is worth recalling the Feast of the Entry into the Temple of Jerusalem of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which prepares us for the beginning of winter and for a series of subsequent magical days!
What holidays are celebrated in Russia on December 4?
What is preparing for us the beginning of winter? Take, for example, December 4 - what holiday in Russia? A day of hugs, the birth of computer science and a festival dedicated to the Introduction of the Blessed Virgin Mary to the Temple of Jerusalem - this is one date on the calendar. And how pleasant it is to realize that this is only the beginning of the December marathon of fun!
One of the most popular youth holidays - Hug Day - spread throughout the world at the end of the 20th century. His traditions are simple and enjoyable. People hug their loved ones, friends, colleagues, and even passers-by on the street, thematic flash mobs are held. Even scientists approve of this holiday. They agree that hugs strengthen immunity and soothe naughty nerves.
Informatics Day is also celebrated on December 4th. What holiday in Russia without an outstanding event? On this day in the mid-nineties in the Soviet Union, a new invention was registered - a digital electronic computing device. Since that memorable moment on December 4th, we have been honoring all computer enthusiasts.
Introduction to the Temple of Jerusalem
The indicated date is known for one more reason. It is very important for Orthodox believers to know about December 4, what holiday in Russia is celebrated on this day. After all, its significance is so great that people are ready to postpone their work and spend a day in prayers.
In his honor, special churches are held in churches and cathedrals. The introduction to the temple of Jerusalem of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a significant Christian holiday, due to the fact that on this day the parents brought the Virgin to the temple with the aim of dedication to God. Since then, this date has been fixed in the church calendar.
According to historical sources, the parents brought the Blessed Virgin at the age of three to the temple to consecrate Her to God. She lived there until she was 12, spending time in spiritual enlightenment, needlework, and prayer. It happened because the mother and father of the Virgin Mary, praying for the birth of a child, made a vow that, in the event of the birth of a son or daughter, they would give their child in the service of God.
You need to remember such a significant event and to know the answer to the question about this day, and not be limited to a dialogue like the following: "December 4 - what holiday in Russia?" - "Day off!".
Establishment of the Celebration of the Entry into the Temple of Jerusalem the Blessed Virgin Mary
Now we know a little more about the uniqueness of December 4th. What holiday in Russia (church) was posted on this calendar page? Introduction to the Temple of Jerusalem of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Feast of the Introduction is very important in the church calendar and is one of the twelve (that is, the most important in Orthodoxy). He is also the latest. Researchers attribute the beginning of its celebration to the activities of Justinian, the Byzantine emperor. In the middle of the VI century, on the ruins of the Temple of Jerusalem, he erected a beautiful church, which he called New. Churches that have been consecrated in honor of the Introduction are called Vvedensky.
Knowing what is celebrated on December 4, what holiday in Russia, you can go to church and ask the Virgin Mary for help and intercession.
Iconography
The system of creating images of the Virgin Mary in honor of this holiday was greatly affected by its late establishment, as well as the unusual event fixation. For the first time we see the scene of the Introduction in the life of the Virgin Mary. In monumental painting, the plot begins to be found in the 9th century.
The most important image in the icons is the Virgin Mary, surrounded by a procession that goes to the temple. Through the ajar gates, the high priest seeks to the Virgin Mary. Behind him on the canvases can be seen the church throne. Often in the middle of the procession you can see the parents of the Virgin Mary. They present it to God as a promised gift.
In other stories, Mary is depicted sitting on the steps at the Altar. Near her flutters an Angel with a censer in his hand.
A great occasion to get acquainted with the great icons gives us just December 4. What holiday in Russia? Religious holiday. So, it's time to go to the temple and devote time to fellowship with God.
How do the Orthodox in Russia celebrate the Feast of the Entry into the Temple of Jerusalem of the Blessed Virgin Mary?
On the fourth of the last month of the year , special events take place in the temples. The festive service on this day includes a small Vespers, all-night vigil, hours and liturgy. Priests wear white or blue robes.
In addition to the question of December 4, what holiday in Russia, people are also interested in what you can eat at the Introduction. As you know, the holiday falls on the Christmas post (alternative name - Filippov), therefore, you need to choose plant foods. Allowed to eat fish.
On this day, you need to free yourself from any work and devote time to fellowship with God. It is advisable to go to the temple: celebratory services will be held there.
Last year, you did not know about December 4, what holiday in Russia? 2014 has already passed. This year there is a chance to make up for the defect. After all, now you know what Orthodox holiday is celebrated on December 4.
National signs on the day of the Entry into the Temple of Jerusalem of the Blessed Virgin Mary
No wonder December 4 is called the gateway to winter. In Russia at this time the first sleigh rides were made. At first, the newlyweds sat in them. The couple chose beautiful painted sledges for themselves, sat in them, and ... winter festivities began!
Also on December 4, the annual Vvedensky fairs opened.
There was such a sign: if you put a branch of cherry broken on that day into the water behind the icon, and look at it on January 14, you can predict your fate. If the cherry blossoms, the year will be good, if it has dried, it will be a failure.
Now you know some signs for December 4, what holiday in Russia 2015 will give us. But this is not all the information. There are other signs!
In case of cold on this day, wait a cold all winter. If it is warm, then the next three months will be the same. If the introduction of frost - sultry summer is expected. It is worth paying attention to the weather. A sunny day portends a poor harvest, and a cloudy one boasts a rich table next year.
As you can see, the Introduction is a landmark historical event with a deep sacred meaning, as well as a day by which one can predict the future.
Having familiarized yourself with the above information, you will no longer ask questions about December 4: “What is a holiday in Russia? Output?". If 2014 has passed with a gap of knowledge about this day, do not worry. Catch up on lost time in the future!