Today, Orthodox believers honor the memory of the holy martyrs Photius and Anicetus of Nicomedia.
Among the people, this celebration is called the Day of the Holy Fire.
In Rus', on this day it was customary to ensure that frost did not damage fruit trees.
Anicetus and his nephew Photius were born in Nicomedia during a time of severe persecution of Christians.
Anicetus served as a military commander, but he changed his attitude towards service when Emperor Diocletian began persecuting Christians.
The ruler's cruelty prompted the commander to leave his service and join the oppressed. He eventually publicly denounced Diocletian, for which he was subjected to horrific torture.
After this, Anikita was thrown to the lions, but the beast did not bite the former commander, but began to lick his wounds. At that moment, Photius stood up for his uncle before the emperor.
The enraged ruler ordered the beheading of both relatives.
Aniceta and Photius accepted death humbly, without retreating from their convictions. Thousands of Christians died with them, having accepted the faith literally together with them.
What you shouldn't do on Holy Fire Day
On this day, many people followed certain rules:
- did not overeat or drink alcohol;
- do not walk alone in unfamiliar places;
- did not quarrel with close relatives.
It was on August 25 that it was considered a grave sin to commit ungodly acts, namely, to make plans for the future. Otherwise, according to beliefs, they would hardly come true later.
What can you do on Holy Fire Day?
Today it is recommended to thoroughly clean your home.
In addition, you can tidy up your garden and vegetable patch.
Also, you shouldn't offend pets. It's better, on the contrary, to devote more time and affection to them.
