Rites And Traditions On Ivan Kupala

As you already know, Ukraine is rich on various rites and traditions. Ivan Kupala is one of the upcoming national holidays of the summer circle. Many Ukrainian ladies gladly celebrate it nowadays. I would like to tell you about its customs so you can be more aware of the history of Ukraine.

Background of the holiday

Due to its pagan background, the holiday of Ivan Kupala glorifies the three elements: fire, water and herbs. With their help, you can either drive away evil spirits or attract them. It is important to carry out ceremonies and follow the Kupala traditions correctly.

The bonfires of Ivan Kupala

The tradition of burning fire at night on Ivan Kupala from July 6th to 7th reaches its roots in the pagan past. The fire itself represented the summer solstice. The days became shorter after June 21 and this was a good opportunity for dark forces to show themselves. To drive away all sorts of demons people went out to mass festivals around the campfires. To provide night entertainment, the village boys set fire to the barrels and rolled them into the river from the high bank.

The magic of a bonfire

The bonfires were used not only for warming up but also for carrying jump competitions. The higher a person jumps above all the bonfires the happier he will be. Loving Ukrainian couples used to jump holding hands over the fading fire. If their hands split up the couple wasn’t about to stay together long. But if they held tight – their destiny was to love each other for many years ahead.

Another usage of fire was healing. People believed that if the clothes of a sick person were burned on the holiday night the person would soon recover.

Water on Ivan Kupala

Many Ivan Kupala traditions are connected with water. On July 7 Christians also mark the birthday of John the Forerunner, who baptized Jesus in Jordan. People believe that from this day on, bathing in open water has become safe. The evil is believed to be expelled from the rivers and lakes.

In addition to healing bathing, it is possible to heal the body and soul by washing with the morning dew. Young Ukrainian ladies are believed to become even more beautiful. In the evening, Ukrainian ladies set the wreaths onto the water for divination. This tradition repeats the divination performed on Trinity Day.

Herbs on Ivan Kupala

On Ivan Kupala, herbs and flowers acquired special healing powers. That is why Ukrainian women harvested and dried them, and used them throughout the year for treatment and protection against malice.

The most important plant of the day is a fern. As legend says, ferns can bloom for a few seconds on Kupala night. If a man sees this miracle, he must tear the flower and escape from the forest fleeing from evil spirits. A successful escape from evil spirits can give a person superhuman powers. A person may learn to understand plants’ and animals’ language as well as be able to easily find any treasures.

What cannot be done on Ivan Kupala?

Ivan Kupala wakes up all the evil spirits of the forest, so you should not sleep this night. In addition to this, there are some other prohibitions. On the night of July 6th to 7th, pregnant Ukrainian women, children, and the elderly should stay away from the water. Evil water spirits (like mermaids) can bring harm to the weakened bodies of these people.

To ensure the family will not be impoverished, its members shouldn’t give, sell, or borrow anything on Ivan Kupala Day. Even if a person finds money on the road – even a big sum – he should by no means take it.

Women who celebrate Ivan Kupala must visit the evening bonfire. They say that only witches avoid doing this.

Russian ladies also celebrate Ivan Kupala

Ukraine is not the only country keeping up the ancient traditions of Slavic ancestors. Russian women, especially those living in villages, also celebrate Ivan Kupala or Kupala night. Traditions of the holiday are the same as those celebrated by Ukrainian ladies. Some women dress in traditional clothing and floral wreaths and take part in the night gaiety.

Knowing rich Slavic traditions can help you break the ice in your conversation with a Ukrainian lady. Just greet her on the day and ask her whether her relatives told her about the family members taking part in such events. You will have an opportunity to hear a very exciting story or tell your lady about the day if she has never heard of it!

Victoria L

Victoria is an adventurous person who loves exploring new places and trying new things. She enjoys cooking, attending concerts, and practicing yoga. In her free time, Victoria enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, attending live music events, and practicing mindfulness through meditation and yoga.