Christianity dedicates this holiday to one of the greatest prophets who zealously preached the coming of Jesus Christ to the people - namely, John the Baptist or the Forerunner. He is revered as the protector of brotherhood and godfatherism. Therefore, on this holiday at noon, the newlyweds visit the house of their brother-in-law and godfathers and bring them brandy, mill, cow and wine.
On this day, the rituals and customs associated with the baptism of water and the belief in its divine power continue. By tradition, brides and grooms who got married this winter until Midsummer, all namesakes, as well as betrothed maidens and bachelors, should bathe.
Another rite that is done in the Thracian lands on Midsummer Day or on the late Athanasov Day is the "catch of arotlici", representing the twinning of boys. If three friends want to fraternize, then on this day they must successively gather at the home of each of them, starting with that of the oldest friend. His mother greeted them and attached a wristlet made of boxwood and ivy to each of them. A gold coin is tied to each with a red thread. Embracing them, the mother uttered the blessing: "From now on, you will become chimshir sisters!" Don't fight and don't say bad words to each other, love and respect each other like brothers!". The custom is repeated in the homes of the other boys.
In Yambol, the rite of twinning is done in a different way. There, married men or bachelors who are preparing to become arthliks step simultaneously with their right foot on live coals. After that, they distribute specially prepared ritual breads and take turns sipping from a cup of red wine.
In the Rhodopes, on this holiday, engaged bachelors, together with their parents and relatives, solemnly go to the home of their betrothed. The mother-in-law-to-be should wash the maiden's face, and then adorn her with a wristlet and a gold coin. Then everyone settles down at the generous table and feasts richly.
© 2024 Iliana Dechkova