July 7 - Ivan Kupala Day

2023-07-06 18:00:00

The Feast of Ivan Kupala: the origin and combination of elements in the holiday

The Feast of Ivan Kupala, also known as Ivana Kupala, is one of the oldest and funniest Ukrainian folk holidays, celebrated on July 7th. This holiday has ancient roots and combines elements of pagan rituals and Christian symbols.

The rite of ignition of hearths: cleansing and transition to a new life

One of the most characteristic rituals of this holiday is the lighting of bonfires. It is believed that fire has a cleansing power and the ability to destroy trouble. Young people and adults gather on the banks of rivers, lakes or in estates, where huge fires are set on fire by joint efforts. People jump over the flames, dance around the fire and sing songs. This contributes to the unity of the community and symbolizes the transition from the old to the new life.

Water rituals: purification from negative energies and healing properties of reservoirs

Water rituals are also common at the Ivan Kupala festival. Young people jump into the water from the bridge or from the slope of the reservoirs, symbolizing the cleansing of negative energies and new forces. Also on this day they often arrange swimming in open water bodies with healing properties.

Legends and legends of the holiday of Ivan Kupala: blooming flowers and their magical power

The holiday of Ivan Kupala is associated with numerous legends and traditions. According to one of the beliefs, on the night of Ivan Kupala, all flowers bloom, and their magical power reaches its maximum. Therefore, the girls gather wild flowers, and after the fire they dance with flowers in their hands

Symbolism of the fern flower: unbending beauty, health and happiness

The fern flower is one of the important symbols associated with the holiday of Ivan Kupala. This symbol is of ancient origin and has different interpretations and legends associated with its magical properties. According to Ukrainian folk beliefs, the fern flower blooms only at night on Ivan Kupala and remains invisible throughout the year. The legend says that whoever finds this flower will be endowed with enduring beauty, health and happiness. However, finding this flower is a difficult task as it only appears for a very short time and is difficult to find.

Love beliefs and the fern flower: finding true love

The fern flower is also associated with love beliefs. According to one of the legends, girls who want to find their true love should go to the forest on the night of Ivan Kupala and collect a fern flower. After that, it can be laid under the pillow, and it is believed that the dream will be the image of the future lover.

The fern flower as a symbol of mystery and hope for a better future

The fern flower symbolizes mystery, mystery and something unattainable. It evokes desire, dreams and hope for a better future. On the holiday of Ivan Kupala, girls often decorate their hair with fern wreaths to attract good luck and love.

Ivan Kupala holiday: fun, community and connection with traditions

The holiday of Ivan Kupala combines fun, rituals and symbolism. This is a special time when people can enjoy summer, nature and traditions, celebrate the holiday together, maintain community and feel connected to the past.

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