| Christmas Traditions in Russia |
| |
| According to the Christmas traditions in Russia special prayers are offered and people fast for 39 days until the first star appears in the sky, to January 6th. After offering prayers the Russians have special Christmas dinner, which includes fish, beet soup or Borsch, cabbage stuffed with millet, cooked dried fruit and much more. In order to encourage horse feed to grow in future hay is spread on the floors and tables. The people in Russia also encourage their hens to lay eggs by making clucking noises. | |
The Christmas traditions in Russia range from singing hymns and carols in praise of Jesus to decorating the Christmas trees with flowers and colored lights. The Christmas trees are also called the Yelka.
On Christmas a popular Christian figure called the Babushka comes to give Christmas gifts especially to kids. The name Babushka means grandmother. It is believed that she wanted to see Jesus but could not find him and started filling her bag with gifts. And even to this day this Christmas tradition is followed in every home in Russia.
The most important part of the Christmas dinner is the Kutya, which is porridge. This is made from wheat berries and other grains that are symbolic of hope and immorality. These are also made from honey and poppy seeds that ensure happiness and success.
According to the Christmas traditions in Russia a ceremony that involves the blessing of every home is observed
|
on Christmas. According to this Christmas tradition in Russia a priest accompanied with boys carrying vessels of holy water visits every home. The priest sprinkles a little water in each room.
After this the kutya, which is the main ingredient of the Christmas dinner, is eaten. This people in Russia eat this kutya from a common dish to symbolize unity on Christmas. |
| |
|
| |
|
|
