Why it is important to abstain from food on January 5 until the first star appears and to watch out for water: signs and prohibitions on Epiphany Eve

On January 5, according to the new church calendar, Epiphany Eve (also known as Epiphany) is celebrated. This holiday is also called Epiphany Eve or Hungry Kutia. It is celebrated as the last in the Christmas cycle, so it is worth taking seriously. People usually observe a strict fast, clean their homes, cook traditional dishes, and sing carols. At the same time, those who adhere more closely to religious traditions visit the temple for confession, seeking to cleanse their souls.

Among the traditions of the day are the last fortune-telling and the harvesting of snow, which is considered healing. This holiday is also known as Hungry Kutia because of the fast, which is part of the festive dinners. According to legend, Jesus Christ was not baptized before January 5, so it is believed that unclean spirits roam at this time. Therefore, it is important to protect your home by crossing all corners three times and sprinkling holy water. Crosses are drawn on windows and doors with chalk, and the room is also fumigated with incense.

Traditionally, during dinner, a spoonful of sochiv is thrown under the ceiling, a candle is lit for the dead, and some food from the festive table is left for them. Dinner begins only after the first star appears, and only lean dishes are prepared, even if the Christmas fast is already over.

Additionally, there is a custom to place a bowl of water, which should be monitored: if it shakes at midnight, you need to go outside and look carefully at the sky. It is believed that if you see the alarm, the wish made at that moment will definitely come true. Also, as tradition dictates, you need to visit a river or spring to collect holy water, and it is recommended that you wash yourself with it on the feast of Baptism.

On this day, you should avoid quarrels, clarifying relationships, condemnation, bad words, and drinking alcohol. The Church strongly condemns greed, laziness, envy, and revenge. According to folk signs, you should not clean the house on this day; all work should be completed the day before, as a strict fast is required before dinner.

On January 5, only kutya is usually eaten—a traditional dish also known as hungry kutya.