Slavic Halloween: how Velesov's night was celebrated on October 31 in ancient times

At the end of October, a popular mystical holiday is celebrated all over the world — Halloween. However, Slavic culture has its own ancient holiday — Velesian Night, rich in myths, rituals and hidden meanings. Its history goes back centuries, when the Slavs celebrated the changing of the seasons, worshipped Veles, the god of wisdom, wealth and the afterlife, and held special rituals to protect them from evil spirits. For more information about how celebrations were held in ancient times and how they differ from modern traditions, see the Izvestia article.

The history and origin of the Velesian Night

The origins of the holiday go back to the pagan era of the ancient Slavs, who associated this day with the transition from autumn to winter, as well as with the return of the souls of their ancestors to earth. In Slavic mythology, Veles is one of the most important gods, the guardian of the border between the worlds of the living and the dead, the patron saint of magic, cattle, wealth and wisdom. On the night of October 31 to November 1, according to ancient beliefs, the gates to Nav opened — the afterlife, where the spirits of the dead and the deities of darkness were located. According to legends, Veles, as the patron saint of the borders of the worlds, descended to earth that night to teach people, punish evil spirits and bless the good.

In Russia, Velesov Night was celebrated as the most important ceremony: the family sat down together, arranged meals and fortune—telling, while avoiding unnecessary noise and haste, because it was important not to break the connection with the ancestors and not attract evil spirits. On this day, prayers were read and rituals were performed aimed at protecting the home and strengthening inner strength. It was believed that the spirits of travelers and deceased relatives could visit that night, and therefore their veneration and commemoration was proportionately important.

How Veles Night was celebrated in ancient times

Veles Night was celebrated in a special way — with powerful rituals, prayers and lit bonfires. On the night of October 31 to November 1, the Slavs arranged places for fortune—telling and predictions - they believed that at this moment the connection with the other world was especially strong. To do this, they used all kinds of methods: they threw dice, made layouts on cards, or simply asked the spirits out loud.

Fortune-telling for love and health was especially popular among girls preparing for marriage. With the help of these rituals, it was possible not only to obtain a prediction, but also to establish contact with the world of spirits, to receive their blessing. Fortune—telling was not just entertaining, but important - it was part of the spiritual preparation for the winter period and strengthening personal and family security.

Of particular importance was the preparation of the house, where it was customary to hang mountain ash branches to scare away evil spirits and protect the dwelling. Candles were placed in the windows, and charms made of herbs and stones were placed on the thresholds and around the house. In the evening, the whole family gathered, a place was left for the ancestors at the table, and icons or images of Veles were placed in the center to connect with the divine forces and receive his blessing. The Vedas, sorcerers and healers performed rituals on this night to purify people and homes in order to protect themselves from evil influences.

Traditions and rituals of the Velesian Night in our days

Despite the centuries, many traditions of the Velesian Night have been preserved today. Recently, festivals dedicated to Slavic roots, bonfires, ritual dances and fortune-telling have become popular. Some people perform household rituals at home or tell tales about gods and heroes. Modern practices also include making amulets, using herbs and incense, and restoring ancient rituals to preserve national identity.

The Orthodox Church's position on the Night of Veles

The Orthodox Church has a negative attitude towards the celebration of Velesian Night, viewing it as an attempt to revive pagan rituals and neo-paganism. According to the clergy, such holidays carry the risk of spreading esotericism and occultism, as well as distracting from the true Orthodox faith and spirituality. The Russian Orthodox Church calls on believers to Christian repentance and respect for the true holy holidays, while preserving the memory of culture and history, but not mixing it with paganism.