February is a special month of the year because it is the shortest and at the same time 1 day is added to it every 4 years. In February we celebrate Carnival, but it is also the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, known as Candlemas.
On this day, a long, wax candle plays a particularly important role; in folk tradition, it is associated with many superstitions, customs and even fortune telling. What is worth knowing about it and what to do to ensure your happiness and health?
Every year 2 the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, known as Candlemas, is celebrated. It is a Christian stationary holiday, which is one of the oldest holidays. It was celebrated already in the 4th century in Jerusalem, and from the 5th century in Rome. However, the popular ritual of blessing candles (known as candles) was introduced only in the 10th century.
The holiday refers to the period of Jesus’ infancy. Forty days after his birth – according to tradition – Joseph and Mary carried the child to the temple to offer him to God. Our Lady of Candlemas ends the Christmas cycle. This is the moment when Christmas trees and nurseries are dismantled and carols stop singing.
However, over time, the Christian tradition mixed with folk customs. A large wax candle, known as a candle, came to be an important protective item. It was lit during a storm and placed in the window to protect the building against lightning strikes.
During services in the Catholic Church, the 2nd birthday is celebrated long candles, called candles. These candles are associated with the last stage of life because they were placed in the hands of a dying person, but they are also lit during other important celebrations. They accompany, for example, baptism and first communion ceremonies.
However, over the centuries, many superstitions and customs have developed around candles. The lit candle was not only intended to protect against lightning and fire, but it was also used to fumigate the house to prevent evil forces from gaining access to it. When placed in a window, it was even supposed to be able to drive away storms and wolves.
It was used on agricultural fields to protect crops against hailstorms. Even predictions were made from the candle font, and more specifically from its smoke. According to beliefs, if the smoke is straight, the year will be peaceful and fertile. However, if the smoke continues, it means frequent winds and storms.
There are many superstitions associated with the popular Candlemas. During the consecration, it was tied with linen, which was supposed to ensure good harvests, but also bring health. In folk tradition, linen was a symbol of life and purity. It was considered a plant resistant to evil forces, and its fibers were supposed to strengthen the protective power of the candle.
This treatment was also supposed to protect household members against diseases, misfortune and evil. Sometimes green branches were also added to the candle as a symbol of life and hope. They were also supposed to strengthen the protective power of the candle. Boxwood, yew, juniper, spruce or pine branches were most often used for this purpose.
