Today, Orthodox believers honor the memory of the holy martyr Emilian of Dorostol.
Among the people, this celebration is called Omelyan's Day.
In Rus', on this day it was customary to expect the onset of a period of thunderstorms and showers.
The Holy Martyr Emilian of Dorostol lived in the 4th century AD. He was born in Dorostol, which today is part of modern Bulgaria.
Emilian lived during the reign of the cruel pagan ruler Julian the Apostate. However, the preacher did not fear the emperor's wrath.
The believer secretly spread Christianity and baptized idolaters who had become imbued with Christian beliefs.
However, the emperor was not idle either. He really wanted to restore the cult of pagan gods in the Roman Empire and eventually ordered the execution of all Christians if possible.
Thus began an era in which the Imperial Guard attacked and brutally dealt with all believers, regardless of gender or age.
However, Emilian did not fear incurring imperial disfavor. He continued to secretly and quietly spread the teachings of Jesus Christ until his death.
The saint died after being executed by the henchmen of Julian the Apostate. He died without renouncing Christianity.
What you shouldn't do on Omelyan's Day
On this day, many people followed certain rules:
- did not go outside after sunset;
- did not clean the house;
- did not lend money and did not become debtors.
It was on July 31 that it was considered a grave sin to commit ungodly acts, namely, to abuse animals. Otherwise, according to beliefs, one could bring troubles upon oneself.
What can you do on Omelyan's Day
Today it is recommended to spend more time in the garden or vegetable garden.
In addition, you should pick mushrooms and berries, which are abundant in the forest.
It is also worth going to a sauna or a bathhouse to have a good steam.
