Are you wondering what has driven people for centuries to gather by rivers and lakes on Epiphany, despite the cold weather? And did you know that according to old beliefs, the water on this day is considered holy?
Also known as Epiphany, on this day the Orthodox Church commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. This is not just a biblical event, but a symbol of spiritual purification and the promise of salvation. It reminds us of deep faith in God – a connection that brings hope, strength, and trust even in the most difficult moments.
Do you want to learn more about the traditions associated with this holiday? In this article, we at Elegantz.bg will introduce you to some of them.
Why is the cross thrown?
We can say that this custom has deep roots in the Christian faith and Bulgarian folk tradition. They have been intertwined since ancient times and can be traced back to the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist.
It is then that Jesus Christ sanctifies the waters of the Jordan River and turns them into a symbol of spiritual purification and a new beginning for all humanity. He not only impressed the gathered people with his humility, but also with his faith in God.
This event laid the foundation of the Epiphany holiday, during which the mystery of the Holy Trinity is revealed and established as a connection between God and people.
But in Bulgarian tradition, this holiday has an even stronger meaning. Even in the past, our ancestors believed that throwing the cross into the water symbolizes God’s presence and blessing. By immersing it in the water, it was believed to drive away evil forces, while the water became purified and a protector of the home and family throughout the year.
Over time, this ritual also became a test of courage, faith, and honor. Young men would jump into the icy waters, not to show physical strength, but as an act of deep respect for tradition and faith.
It was believed that whoever retrieves the cross will be healthy, happy, and blessed, and his family will enjoy fertility and protection. In some regions, the cross was even carried around the village to bless all the houses and households. This further emphasized its role as a bearer of God’s grace.
What is the role of water?
You have surely noticed that water has played an important role in Bulgarian culture since ancient times, even before the adoption of Christianity. And this is no coincidence! Our ancestors perceived it as a source of life, purity, and magical power. They associated it with nature and its cycles.
With the adoption of Christianity, the water on Epiphany gained an even deeper meaning. It is believed that on this very day all waters on earth are sanctified and receive God’s blessing. That is why people, even in the past, would gather early in the morning around water sources, fill containers with water and keep it for the whole year. They used it for healing, protection against evil forces, and for blessing their homes.
Who celebrates a name day on this holiday?
An interesting fact is that on this day everyone whose names are associated with the holiday, the Jordan River, and the Christian symbolism of baptism and faith celebrates.
On Epiphany, the following names celebrate:
- Yordan, Yordanka, Dancho and Danka.
- Bogdan and Bogdana, since the names mean “given by God.”
- Bozhidar, Bozhidara, Bozhana.
- Yoan, Ivan, Ivanka.
- Yana, Yani and Yanko, which also share the same root as the name Yoan.
What are the most important Epiphany traditions?
Besides throwing the cross into the icy waters of various water bodies, another important custom is the blessing and use of Epiphany water. Today this happens in churches, where priests perform special rituals while doing it.
People take blessed water from the church and keep it throughout the year.
And how will you celebrate Epiphany?
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