Why is it important to swim on October 13 and what means to use for children today: signs and prohibitions on Zlaty

On October 13, according to the new Orthodox calendar, Ukraine celebrates the day of the miraculous Iversko-Mirno Icon of the Mother of God, known as “Myrrh-Sprinkling”. This is one of the most revered shrines in Ukraine.

Other names for the holiday include “Karp”, “Zlata”, “Zlata-onuchnitsa”, and “Banove pobyt”. It is believed that the Iversko Icon can be turned to for protection from misfortune and fires, as well as for comfort in grief. This day also marks Bath Day, when baths were traditionally arranged and prepared for a steam procedure. Healing herbal infusions and birch brooms were used in the baths. This was done to improve health and prepare for the cold. It is believed that with the help of the bath spirit, one can get rid of epilepsy.

For Bannik, the so-called spirit of the bath, water, soap, and a broom are left so that he can also steam. Since Bannik is considered capricious, he is treated with caution: if he is offended, he may show anger. In the bathhouse, people often remove their personal cross and bow three times before entering.

Today, conspiracies are also used to protect valuable things so that they are not stolen or lost. To do this, you need to put the thing in the middle of the table, cross yourself three times, and then hold the Iverskaya icon over the thing, pronouncing special words that are passed down from generation to generation.

For newborns, they take a water decoction from the bathhouse and sprinkle the child with it from a willow branch, believing it protects the child from harm and the evil eye. Water is blessed near the Iverskaya icon, which can save you from many troubles and bring good luck. It is recommended to keep holy water next to the icon and drink it before important events.

What not to do on October 13

The Church forbids quarrels, backbiting, gossip, slander, condemnation, envy, greed, revenge, and despair on this day. Also, one should not refuse help to those who ask for it.

According to folk signs, it is not recommended to do heavy housework on this day.