St. Luke the Apostle: an outstanding life, ministry and martyrdom

Every year on October 31, the Orthodox Church celebrates the memory of the Apostle and Evangelist Luke, one of the most famous disciples of Christ, a physician, traveler and author of the Gospel and the Acts of the Holy Apostles. This day, known in the national calendar as Lukov Day, is not only dedicated to the great saint, but is also associated with a number of traditions and customs, the observance of which was considered important to protect against troubles and preserve harmony in the family. Details can be found in the Izvestia article.

Who is the Apostle Luke: a biography

The Apostle Luke, an evangelist and iconographer, was born in the 1st century in Antioch in Syria. According to legend, he was a physician and, perhaps, the only author of the New Testament of non-Jewish origin. Among the 70 disciples of Christ, Luke was sent to the first sermon on the Kingdom of Heaven during the Savior's lifetime. Subsequently, he became a faithful companion of the Apostle Paul, accompanying him on his missionary journeys. After Paul's martyrdom, Luke continued to preach in Achaia, Libya, Egypt, and Thebaid. The Apostle Luke was martyred at the age of 84 in the city of Thebes, being hanged from a tree.

Luke is the author of the Third Gospel and the Book of Acts of the Holy Apostles. His works are distinguished by the historical accuracy and elegance of the Greek language. The Church reveres him as the first icon painter, attributing to him the creation of the first icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Apostles Peter and Paul.

When is St. Luke's Memorial Day?

The Orthodox Church celebrates the memory of St. Luke the Apostle and Evangelist on October 31. This day is also known as Lukov Day in the national calendar. In some countries and traditions, other dates associated with the Apostle Luke are also celebrated, such as January 8 and 17 (the Council of the 70 Apostles) and May 5.

November 8 — Dmitry Solunsky Memorial Day: the history of the holiday and traditions

What not to do on St. Luke's Memorial Day

On St. Luke's memorial Day, observing a number of folk customs is considered especially important. So, it is not recommended to borrow money, as this can lead to financial difficulties and misunderstandings in the family.

Also, you should not start new businesses or projects, because it is believed that they will not bring the expected result. On this day, it is undesirable to go to the forest, because there is a belief that goblins can lead a person away.

In addition, it is not recommended to talk about diseases, as this, according to popular beliefs, can provoke their appearance. You should not throw things around so as not to lose something important, and you should not give dolls to girls, as it is believed that this may affect their future motherhood. Observance of these traditions reflects respect for folk customs and faith in protection from possible troubles.