Before the adoption of Christianity, the way of life of Belarus was built on a natural calendar. People watched natural phenomena, worshiped deities who patronized the earth, water or forests, and celebrated the onset of the next season, the harvest or the beginning of sowing. Over time, the traditions of Belarus have changed, but the worship of nature and the desire to live with it in complete peace and harmony is still fundamental for those who consider the endless Polesie their home.
Simple rules
Many traditions of Belarus are also familiar to Russian residents, because our peoples have been closely linked for a long time. Moving to a new house, for example, a Belarusian will let the first cat in so that it drives away the evil spirits. The main pets for a resident of Belarus are a goat and a horse. They protect the house from evil spells and feed its inhabitants. The image of a horse and a goat on amulets can still be found in souvenir shops today.
In the red corner of the house, decorated with embroidered towels, only the head of the family could sit. The rest of the household took places next to him and waited for his father to allow the meal to begin. In modern traditions of Belarus, respect for the elder member of the family and the man is still clearly expressed and it is customary to consult with the father and husband in all matters.
Exploring the Holidays
Almost every month Belarusians celebrate some holidays associated with changes in the calendar and in nature. Before buying a tour to a neighboring country, you can study the traditions of Belarus and choose a holiday in which you would like to take part:
- Dozhinki symbolize the end of grain harvesting and this holiday is accompanied by festivities and a beautiful procession with sheaves.
- Christmas carols mark the beginning of a new sunny and agricultural year. During this holiday, it is customary to guess, dance, feast and visit relatives and neighbors.
- In Kupalya, the traditions of Belarus prescribe to look for a fern flower in the night forest and lead a round dance around the fire. Bathing on a festive night, according to the beliefs of Belarusians, removes sins and cleanses the soul, and washing with morning dew gives health, vigor and rejuvenates.
- Butter, cheese and ruddy pancakes are a sign of the coming Shrovetide. It is celebrated on a grand scale, because according to tradition, this week you need to walk and have fun so that good luck and prosperity come to the house. The celebration of Maslenitsa helped to shake things up after hibernation and prepare for the new spring.
