Today, Orthodox believers honor the memory of St. Seraphim of Sarov.
Among the people, this celebration is called Seraphim of Sarov Day.
In Rus', on this day it was customary to expect the onset of a period of thunderstorms and showers.
Seraphim of Sarov was born in 1754, he was a descendant of a noble family. His father was the Kursk merchant Moshin.
Since childhood, Seraphim did not know deprivation. However, even before his adolescence, he lost his father and remained to live with his mother.
Seraphim was a sickly child. One day, in delirium from a high temperature, he saw the Virgin Mary, who promised him healing.
The next morning the boy heard the sounds of a religious procession with the icon of the Sign of the Most Holy Theotokos under his windows.
Seraphim asked to be taken to the believers, and his mother carried him out in her arms. As soon as the boy's ears were touched by the sounds of prayers, he was instantly healed.
So Seraphim was later baptized and became a devout believer. He began to preach Christianity. He was very educated, and therefore knew how to instill in people a love for faith.
What you can't do on Seraphim of Sarov Day
On this day, many people followed certain rules:
- did not walk near bodies of water, this especially applied to men;
- did not pickle cucumbers, did not ferment cabbage;
- They didn't argue, didn't swear, and didn't argue.
It was on August 1 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 Seraphim of Sarov Day
Today it is recommended to go to church and attend the service.
In addition, you should pick mushrooms and berries, which are abundant in the forest.
It is also worth giving alms to the poor to attract good luck.