An important stage in the change of seasons is the day of the vernal equinox, the astronomical beginning of spring. As we know, in spring the day increases and the night decreases. And on 20 March comes the moment when the length of the day and the length of the night become equal.
Vernal equinox is a unique astronomical phenomenon, which has long had a special meaning for people. Our ancestors associated the equinox with the beginning of a new life cycle, so it was filled with rituals, beliefs and traditions.
What you can not do on 20 March
- On this day it was forbidden to quarrel, conflict and hold grudges , because it can attract bad luck.
- Also on the equinox should not leave the house without light in the evening – ancestors believed that so you can protect yourself from the dark forces.
- It was considered a bad luck to meet this day in dirt and disorder, so before the equinox was a general cleaning.
- In addition, heavy physical labour and important financial decisions were avoided so as not to attract instability.
- You should not be sad or depressed – it is believed that the joyful mood of this day will attract a happy year.
- It is forbidden to go travelling – you should be careful not to take risks.
- On the day of the vernal equinox it was forbidden to save money for a rainy day. It was believed that so you can bring poverty.
Folk omens on the vernal equinox
Our ancestors carefully observed nature on this day to predict the future weather and harvest.
1. If the equinox is warm and sunny – spring will be early and generous, and if cloudy and cold – frost may be delayed for another 40 days.
2. If cranes arrived on this day – spring will be prolonged, and if swallows appeared – warmth will come quickly.
3 Frost on the day of the equinox was considered a harbinger of prolonged cold weather, and rain promised a rich harvest.
4. It was also believed that a wish made on this day would be fulfilled, and dreams could be true. Attention to the signs of the day helped to direct the year in a favourable direction.
On the day of the vernal equinox, the astronomical spring finally arrives. Find out what you can and cannot do on 20 March to keep the traditions of your ancestors on this date!