Timothy of Olympus
March 6, Wednesday
History and Traditions of Timofey Vesnovey
The holiday is based on Orthodox traditions associated with the memory of Saint Timothy. He was a bishop in the city of Amasia (in what is now Turkey) and lived in the 4th century. In popular tradition, this day became "vesnovey" because at this time, according to ancient beliefs, the spring wind begins to move, as if "blowing" spring to the earth. This day was important for rural residents, who followed the signs, waiting for the beginning of spring work.
Folk omens and rituals
On Timofey Vesnovey, special rituals were performed and attention was paid to natural signs in order to predict what the spring would be like and whether the harvest would be successful. Here are some of them:
Wind and warming. If a strong warm wind began to blow on this day, it was believed that spring would be quick and prosperous. Such wind was welcomed, saying that this was spring beginning to "whirl" or "spring".
The image of spring and the expulsion of winter. In some places, rituals were held symbolizing the expulsion of winter and the welcome of spring, burning straw dolls symbolizing winter, or scattering seeds for a quick awakening of nature.
The weather on this day. The signs of the day determined the spring weather. If the snow began to melt on Timofey, an early spring was expected, and if there were frosts, then the winter could drag on.
Caring for livestock. In the old days, it was believed that on this day, special care should be taken of livestock, since the spring wind can "sweep out" diseases, and the cattle can become weak. Animals were fed intensively and they tried not to let them out into the street.
Preparation for spring work. It was considered a good omen to begin preparations for field work on Timofey Vesnovey, since this set the tone for the future harvest.