Why you shouldn’t make plans on April 8 and Who you should bow to: signs and prohibitions on Herodion

According to the new church calendar, on April 8 (April 21 according to the old), Orthodox Christians honor Saint Herodion, one of the 70 apostles chosen by Jesus Christ.

The holiday is also known as Rodion Ledol because, on this day, the transition from winter to spring occurs when the ice on the reservoirs begins to melt, and the sounds of ice cracking become increasingly audible. This event symbolizes the holiday’s name.

The holy martyr Herodion commemorated on this day, was probably of Jewish origin, as evidenced by his connection with the Apostle Paul in the Epistle to the Romans. Herodion was from Tarsus, but the exact date of his birth remains unknown. He accompanied the Apostles Peter and Paul and later was appointed bishop in the Greek city of Patara.

During his preaching activity, Saint Herodion was supported by numerous pagans, whom he converted to Christianity. Due to the success of his mission, the local Jews experienced an envious reaction and pushed the pagans to attack the saint.

On the day of Saint Rodion, he was brutally attacked: he was beaten with sticks, stoned, and, finally, stabbed with a sword. Considering him dead, the attackers left, but miraculously, Saint Herodion remained alive. After his healing, he went to Rome with the Apostle Peter, continuing to preach the teachings of Christ.

In the end, the Apostle Peter was crucified, and Herodion himself fell into the hands of Roman idolaters and became a martyr.

On the day of Saint Rodion, believers pray for the strengthening of their faith and ask for peace of mind.

Traditions and Superstitions

April 8 was considered in the popular consciousness as the day when the Moon meets the Sun. Depending on whether this meeting was peaceful or conflictual, the weather was predicted: a bright and sunny sky promised a hot summer, and cloudy weather – cool June days.

People also observed certain prohibitions on this day: one should not swear, quarrel, or gossip, and one should not refuse help. It was also not recommended to engage in cleaning, fishing, hunting, or planning long-term affairs so as not to encounter failures.

This day announces the end of winter and the beginning of spring renewal.