On January 7, Orthodox Christians in Kyrgyzstan will celebrate the Nativity of Christ, which is a significant event in their calendar. This day not only symbolizes the end of the 40-day Christmas fast but is also an official holiday in the country, concluding the January festivities.
Origins of the holiday
Christmas is established in honor of the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians revere as the Savior. He was born in the small town of Bethlehem, which became the site of his birth.
According to biblical texts, the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus during a census when the city was overcrowded. Due to a lack of lodging, Mary and Joseph found shelter in a stable, where Christ was born.
At his birth, a star shone in the sky, guiding the wise men to the infant. Initially, shepherds worshipped him, and then the Magi brought their gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Preparation for Christmas
Before Christmas, Orthodox Christians observe a 40-day fast to prepare for the holiday. On the evening before Christmas, this fast ends, and active preparations for the celebration begin.
According to church norms and folk traditions, it is forbidden to eat on Christmas Eve until the appearance of the first star, which symbolizes the Bethlehem star.
Celebration of Christmas
On the night before Christmas, festive services are held in churches. In Bishkek, such events will take place at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral and at the Church of Saint Prince Vladimir in the 12th microdistrict.
A multitude of believers come to the service to meet the holiday in prayer, and then gather with loved ones at the festive table.
Traditional dishes on the table
The main dish on the Christmas table is kutya (sochivo), which symbolizes wealth and family well-being. This dish is prepared from grains of wheat, honey, nuts, dried fruits, and poppy seeds, and it marks the beginning of the festive meal on January 7.
Although there are no strict rules regarding how to set the table, it is important that it is generous and abundant after a long fast. Inviting guests is traditional and is considered a good omen.
Carols and folk signs
On Christmas Eve, traditional carols are performed. After the church service, young people dress in costumes and go to the homes of neighbors, singing songs with wishes of health and happiness. The hosts, in turn, treat the guests with sweets or money.
Many folk signs are associated with Christmas. For example, attention is paid to the first guest who crosses the threshold of the house on January 7. If it is a man, it is considered a sign of luck and prosperity for the entire year. The weather conditions on this day are also important: frost heralds health, while hoarfrost on the trees indicates a good harvest.
