Illuminated Week. What is forbidden today, May 8, for women

On May 8, the Church celebrates Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist. He is also known as the “beloved disciple of Christ”, who bowed his head to the chest of the Lord during the Last Supper.

Saint John was the author of the Gospel, three Epistles and the book of Revelation. It is said that shortly after his burial, his body disappeared. This fueled the belief that he was taken up into heaven.

Wednesday and Friday of Holy Week are “map days”

According to tradition, a white powder rose from his grave. She is considered a healer by the Christians of the time. They used it to get rid of various diseases and infirmities.

Wednesday and Friday of Holy Week are called “map days”, when sweet foods are allowed.

The Church instituted these days with dispensation to celebrate the joy of the Lord’s Resurrection.

Traditions and customs on these holy days

Therefore, on Wednesday and Friday of Bright Week, fasting is not observed.

In the traditional countryside, the Wednesday of Bright Week is marked by various traditions and customs.

On this day, men can start agricultural work in the fields, while women are strictly forbidden to work.

According to some superstitions, it is said that women are not allowed to work in the garden on the Wednesday of Bright Week, as there is a belief that otherwise they will have nothing to put on the table for the rest of the year.

Women were forbidden to work in the garden

Also, according to other traditions, women who dare to work in the garden on this day are warned that all their seedlings will be destroyed overnight.

It is also believed that women are forbidden to sew during this week as there is a belief that they might die from being struck by lightning.

There is also a tradition that all people should wear white clothes during Bright Week to be protected and blessed throughout the year.

It is said that those who pass away on Easter or Holy Week go straight to Heaven. According to belief, only the doors of Heaven are considered to be open on these days, while those of Hell remain closed.