Walpurgis Night

Walpurgis Night is a mystical holiday, dating back to pre-Christian traditions, the night from April 30 to May 1 before the commemoration of St. Walpurgia.

According to medieval ideas, at a time when the Walpurgis Night falls to the ground, witches, sorcerers and other evil spirits gain unprecedented power. Also, this time among the admirers of sorcery this time is considered the most favorable for carrying out all sorts of magical rituals.

Walpurgis Night in the Cultures of Different Peoples

It's amazing that in different cultures the night between April and May was considered magical. The Celts celebrated their spring holiday Beltane at that time, in Germany, Austria and other countries it was customary to dance round the May tree symbolizing the world axis. This rite is dedicated to restoring order and harmony, as well as awakening the fertile forces of the earth.

Pagan holidays of the Slavs in many ways coincide with the ancient rituals, which were held throughout Europe. According to the beliefs of our ancestors, the night between April and May is the time when the boundary between the world of people (Yav) and the lower world (Nav) disappears, from which evil entities can come if there is no right defense. Only the name of the Slavic holiday was Zhivin day, not Walpurgis night. It is believed that he was dedicated to the Goddess of fertility Zhiva. At this time, rites were held to clean houses of evil, and, of course, to a rich harvest.

Slavs believed that the dead ancestors are always nearby, and are ready to give advice and share their strength with the people who live now. This was the cult of the Rod, the basis of the beliefs of the Slavs.

On April 30, when the cold finally recedes, the Slavs honored their ancestors, visited graves, leaving gifts to them. Like most holidays, the day before Zhivin was inextricably linked with the veneration of Rod's power.

Muslims celebrate the feast of destiny on this night. At sunrise they say a prayer and ask the higher powers to fulfill their most cherished desire.

In many works of art, Walpurgis Night is associated with the appearance on Earth of the forces of evil that seek to harm people. However, since ancient times in many cultures this holiday was considered one of the four main events of the year, when the time of purification and rebirth came. In nature, there is a turn from spring to summer, and a person living in accordance with natural laws can use the power of this period to free himself from filth.

Herbs and plants on this night, according to legends, were filled with healing power that used healers. In many villages fires were lit, on which the effigies of witches personifying evil were destroyed. People jumped through the fire to go through purification and gain new strength.

Now in Europe Walpurgis night is celebrated every year. This holiday is always noisy and fun. Many firecrackers are blown up, the sound of which is designed to drive away evil spirits, huge bonfires are kindled, ancient traditional games are held.

Christians from time immemorial considered this night the time of the forces of evil, from which people can only be protected by fire and prayer. For the Gentiles Walpurgis night was a feast of fertility, rebirth and a new life.

One thing is certain - the time between April and May really has an unusual energy. People who seek to live in harmony with the world, at this time can benefit from the awakening of natural forces. On this day you can escape from the usual bustle and be alone to listen to yourself and better understand how to build a further life. Even simple walks in nature, in the forest can add vivacity and cheerfulness. And even this night you can make the most secret wish, it will surely come true.