— SACRED TIME —

Kupala Night

June 23 · Slavic tradition · Paganism of antiquity

Fixed date

Esoteric and historical meaning

Slavic solstitial night of fire and water: searching for the fern flower that does not exist and which grants knowledge of hidden treasures.

Operative mechanics — ritual acts

·Couples jumping over the bonfire holding hands
·Flower crowns set adrift on the current for divination
·Night bath in the river
·Searching for the fern flower

Traditional foods

·Eggs, fresh cheese
·Vareniki, beer

Offerings

·Flower crowns to the river
·Herbs thrown into the fire

Taboos to respect

·Do not sleep during the night
·Do not look back while searching for the fern

Associated symbols

Flower crown · Fern · Fire and water