Folk signs for November 8: what can and cannot be done

In Russia, omens have been given special importance since ancient times. They were used to judge the weather, when to sow and harvest, and what to expect in the future. Therefore, every day of the national calendar was full of rituals and superstitions. Izvestia tells about the popular signs of Saturday, November 8, and which saints are revered on this day.

Folk signs for November 8, 2025

In Russia, St. Dmitry's Day was celebrated on November 8, which occupied a special place in the national calendar of the Slavs. Traditionally, by this date, they tried to complete all the preparatory work for the cold weather and make the main preparations for the winter. Important economic and social rituals were associated with the holiday, including final settlements with employees and the conclusion of contracts for the next season.

Also, on St. Dmitry's Day, commemorations for the deceased were celebrated everywhere, especially if the date fell on a Saturday. This custom, according to legend, was established by Prince Dmitry Donskoy himself after his victory in the Battle of Kulikovo. In memory of the fallen soldiers, he ordered an annual commemoration, which became the day of remembrance of all deceased ancestors.

People visited cemeteries, cleaned graves, and invited priests to serve memorial services. Rich tables were set at home, where the favorite dishes of the deceased were necessarily placed, believing that on this day their souls were present next to the living.

Folk signs on November 8 were closely related to the weather forecast for the coming winter and spring. For example, if the day turned out to be cold and snowy, it foreshadowed the same late and cold spring. The thaw, on the other hand, promised a warm winter and early spring. These observations are reflected in the proverbs: "On Dmitriev's day, winter climbs the fence," "If Dmitriev's day is in the snow, then Holy Easter is in the snow."

Other signs of the day:

• A crimson sky at sunrise or sunset leads to windy weather.;
• It's getting warmer outside — severe frosts are coming soon;
• Windows that are fogged up or covered with frost can lead to a sharp cold snap.;
• the cat covers its muzzle with its paw — to the cold;
• You can't hear the birds singing — it's freezing.

What not to do on November 8th

On St. Dmitry's Day, there were a number of strict prohibitions based on superstition and respect for the memory of ancestors. According to beliefs, violating these rules could lead to misfortune and illness. It was especially strictly forbidden to neglect memorial traditions, as this could anger the souls of the dead and deprive the house of their protection. Any housework other than cooking was postponed in order to fully devote the day to spiritual reflection and prayer.

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What else can't be done on November 8th:

• to speak ill of the dead is to incur the wrath of the ancestors;
• Doing hard work and needlework is a recipe for trouble;
• Picking up sharp objects can shorten your destiny.;
• swearing and quarreling — all the bad words and deeds will come back;
• to sweep the litter out of the hut is to lose well—being;
• Having too much fun leads to tears.

What is the church holiday on November 8th?

On November 8, the Orthodox Church commemorates one of the most revered saints, the Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica. He lived in the city of Thessalonica (now Thessaloniki) at the end of the III — beginning of the IV century during the reign of the pagan emperor Diocletian. Dimitri came from a noble family of secret Christians who baptized him and raised him in the faith.

After his father's death, he was appointed proconsul of Thessalonica, and his main task was to protect the city from the barbarians. However, contrary to the emperor's expectations, Demetrius began to openly preach Christianity and convert the townspeople to his faith. Upon learning of Demetrius' activities, the emperor ordered him to be imprisoned.

Without renouncing Christ, the saint was executed by spearing around the year 306. The body of the martyr was secretly buried by the Christians of Thessalonica, who feared his destruction. His faithful servant Lupp played a special role in preserving the saint's memory. He took the robe of the lord, soaked in his blood, as well as the ring from his hand. These shrines have become a source of numerous miracles and healings.

The church commemorates Luppa of Thessalonica on the same day. Like his master, he was captured and tortured, but, according to the hagiography, was preserved by God unharmed. Persecuted by pagans, Saint Luppus voluntarily surrendered himself into the hands of his tormentors and, by order of Emperor Maximian Galerius, was beheaded with a sword.

Prayer to Saint Demetrius of Thessalonica for protection and help in difficult circumstances

Prayers on November 8th

Demetrius of Thessalonica is traditionally revered as the heavenly patron saint of warriors and defender of the Fatherland. They pray to Him for the gift of courage, for the safety of those who are in military service or in a war zone. They also turn to him with prayers for healing from diseases and strengthening faith. Saint Luppa's help is resorted to during periods of trial and persecution. It is believed that he also provides special protection to those who are preparing to receive the sacrament of baptism.

Prayer to Demetrius of Thessalonica

"Holy and glorious Great Martyr of Christ, Demetrius, the speedy helper and warm intercessor of those who flow to you with faith! Standing boldly before the Heavenly King, ask Him for forgiveness of our sins and that we may be delivered from the ever-destructive plague, cowardice, flood, fire, sword and eternal punishment. Pray to His goodness to protect this city, this monastery, and every Christian country. Intercede with the King of Kings for victory and victory over the enemies of Orthodox Christians, and for the entire Orthodox empire for peace, silence, firmness in faith, and prosperity in piety; but to us, who honor your honorable memory, ask for gracious strengthening for good deeds, so that through your prayers we may be worthy to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven for eternal glorification. He is with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Amen to that."

Prayer to Luppa of Thessalonica

Troparion, glas 4

"O Lord, thy martyr, Lupus, in his suffering I have received an incorruptible crown from Thee, our God: for thou hast thy strength, overthrow the tormentors, and crush the demons of feeble insolence. Save our souls through your prayers."

Kontakion, glas 2

"You have appeared as a bright star, O glorious one of the world, proclaiming the Suns of Christ, through your dawns, O Passion-bearer Luppe, and you have extinguished all charm: give us light, praying unceasingly for all of us."

Earlier, Izvestia told what they pray to St. John Chrysostom.