Two Celebrations That Merged Over Time
Although today the terms Kupala Night and Midsummer Eve are often used interchangeably, in the past they referred to two different celebrations.
And what about what used to be known as St John鈥檚 Eve? This was a festival celebrated on the occasion of the summer solstice. Today we often use these terms interchangeably, whereas in the past they denoted separate celebrations.
As the expert explains, Kupala Night is a pre-Christian festival (one of the oldest), celebrated on the night of 20鈥�21 June. St John鈥檚 Eve, in turn, was observed a few days later, on the night of 23鈥�24 June, commemorating St John the Baptist, and it was then that people could finally bathe safely (as it was believed that bathing before this feast should be avoided). Today, these differences are becoming increasingly blurred.
Fire, Water and Love Divinations
In fact, all these customs are rooted in pagan traditions rather than religious rituals. They were meant to ensure prosperity, happiness, health and abundance, thanks to the elements of fire and water.
Bonfires, associated with St John鈥檚 Eve celebrations, were lit near bodies of water. Dancing and ritual jumps over the flames were believed to bring good fortune, also in love.
Couples would jump over the fire holding hands, and a successful leap guaranteed a successful relationship
鈥� emphasises Kostrzewska.
Wreaths made by women from wildflowers and herbs played a special role.
If a wreath was retrieved by a beloved, it foretold great love and a happy marriage, but if it became entangled in weeds, it meant that the young woman would not marry within the coming year.
The Fern Flower 鈥� a Symbol of Happiness
The legendary fern flower remains the most mysterious symbol of Kupala Night.
The fern flower blooms only for a brief moment, but its glow is so strong that it is impossible to look away. It guarantees happiness and all prosperity 鈥� perhaps this year we will find it ourselves?
Ancient Rites in Contemporary Culture
Christianity did not entirely displace earlier traditions. Old rites were given new meanings, but they continued to be practised.
Ancient rituals were clothed in new forms, yet they were still cultivated, and the Kupala festival carried with it joy, renewal, faith in the future and in love. It is also preserved in art and literature.
Even today, interest in Slavic customs does not diminish.
We are increasingly eager to return to traditions, to rediscover old customs and rituals, and to search for our roots.
Examples include wreaths set afloat on the Vistula River in Warsaw, as well as events at Stawy Stefa艅skiego in 艁贸d藕, during which one can experience Slavic traditions up close.
Source: Dr Ewelina Kostrzewska
Edit: Kacper Szczepaniak, Centre for Brand Communications, 91桃色