Folk signs for November 20: 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 Thursday, November 20, and what church holidays are celebrated on this day.
Folk signs for November 20, 2025
Fedotov's Day was celebrated in Russia on November 20. In the national calendar, this day was associated with the final arrival of winter and the establishment of the tobogganing route. According to the weather at Fedot, they judged what the upcoming winter would be like and how fruitful the coming year would be. Special attention was paid to winter ice — its formation and strength, which was important for safety and business planning.
According to custom, on the holiday, the peasants checked and prepared sleds, horse harnesses and other equipment for trips. At that time, women were engaged in weaving and sewing by the light of a torch. In the evenings, it was customary for large families to gather. During these gatherings, fairy tales and epics were told, and plans for the upcoming period were shared.
Weather signs on Fedot were of great importance for the agricultural calendar. For example, if ice on the river became piles on Fedot, this foreshadowed a good harvest of bread next year. If the day was clear and frosty, a harsh but snowy winter was expected, which was favorable for winter crops. The behavior of wild animals, especially hares, was also observed.
Other signs of the day:
- snow fell on the wet ground — for an early and warm spring;
- the hare runs along the road — to the imminent snowfall;
- The bullfinch has begun to sing — it will get warmer soon;
- morning fog in the morning is also a harbinger of a thaw.;
- the stars twinkle brightly — for frost and blizzard.
What not to do on November 20th
On Fedotov's day, there were also a number of strict prohibitions based on centuries-old observations and superstitions. Our ancestors believed that violating these rules could get the whole family into trouble, including financial losses and discord. They were especially afraid of quarrels and conflicts on this day, since it was believed that any quarrel attracts need to the house. Observance of traditions was considered as a guarantee of family well-being.
What else can not be done on November 20:
- lending money leads to financial losses;
- swearing and swearing will bring need into the house.;
- leaving laundry outside after sunset is a risk of illness;
- starting new important things leads to failures;
- sewing and embroidering until noon — you can "sew up" your happiness.
What is the church holiday on November 20th?
On November 20, the Orthodox Church commemorates St. Theodotus of Ancyra and St. Lazarus of Galicia. Both saints are revered as examples of steadfastness in faith and service to God. Theodotus proved himself to be a wise pastor and teacher who defended his flock from heretical teachings. Lazarus, on the contrary, chose the path of hermit, becoming the founder of the famous monastery. The Church reveres them as heavenly intercessors and prayer books.
According to the life, Theodotus of Ancyra lived in the IV century in Asia Minor. He came from a pious Christian family and devoted himself to serving God from a young age. He was later ordained Bishop of Ancyra and became famous as a zealous defender of the Orthodox faith during the spread of the Arian heresy. His life was full of works and sermons aimed at the establishment of Christian teaching.
Saint Lazarus of Galicia was born in Lydia in the 11th century. Being the son of righteous parents, he aspired to monastic life from an early age. At the age of 18, the young man took vows and went to the Holy Land, and later settled in the vicinity of Ephesus. Striving for complete solitude, the monk ascended Mount Galicia, where he founded the Church of the Resurrection of Christ and spent many years in prayer and the feat of silence. His life became an example of asceticism and spiritual asceticism.
Prayers on November 20th
St. Theodotus is addressed with prayers for strengthening in faith, especially in times of doubt and trials. They also pray to Him for the enlightenment of the lost and their return to the bosom of the Church. They pray to St. Lazarus of Galicia for the gift of patience, for strengthening the spirit in the struggle against passions and temptations. He is also approached by those who seek solitude for prayer or perform monastic feats.
Prayer to Theodotus of Ancyra
Troparion, glas 4
"Thy martyr, O Lord, Theodotus, in his suffering, 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
"Strive painfully for good, with your compassionate ones, Theodore, and receive crowns of honor with the honest passion-bearing virgins. In the meantime, pray to Christ God incessantly for all of us."
Prayer to Lazarus of Galicia
Troparion, glas 8
"With watchful prayers, you soaked the pillar with tears, and from the depths with sighs you bore fruit in a hundred labors, and you were a shepherd, giving forgiveness to all, our Venerable Father Lazarus: pray to Christ our God for our souls."
Kontakion, glas 4
"As a great lamp, the Church of Christ praises you with the joy of the psalm. Moreover, do not stop praying to Christ and grant forgiveness to all transgressions."
Earlier, Izvestia told what they pray to St. John Chrysostom.
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Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
