WeleslaW

   Before the new sun is born, we still have a few days, significant in Slavic tradition, ahead of us. These days, originally determined based on the lunar calendar, have been preserved until today and have become associated with the recent day of Barbara, as well as St. Nicholas and Lucia, who marks the end of the stridžné (witches') days, after which the solstice period begins, now called Christmas.

On the first of November, the time came when the period of the Stridžné (Stridjne) - Witches Days began to visibly approach, and with it, the days when our ancestors performed various rituals. But what exactly are the Stridžné Days?

During the time of Džady, we honored our ancestors by lighting candles on their decorated graves and inviting them to join our ceremonial meal. Thanks to Mokoš’s circle, we recently also performed a commemorative ritual at Raslavkaň. There weren’t many of us, but the ritual was conducted. But why, really?

Soon, the time will come when our ancestors celebrated festivals to remember, honor, and give thanks for the support, care, and very existence of their forebears. The rituals, often held in the form of communal feasts, usually took place at the graves of ancestors, where a sacred fire was lit, and offerings from the ceremonial feast were left at the graves, typically on the eve of November 1st.

It's time. Recently, one of the most significant days of the year arrived – the Day of the Autumn Equinox. For our ancestors, this day was not just another date on the calendar but the beginning of a whole period marked by a distinct autumnal character. The wild game begins its nocturnal "concerts," nature changes under the touch of autumn, and adorns itself in warm colors. At the same time, you can feel the gradual cooling as the sun sets.