Ilinden: customs, names and table

Ilinden: customs, names and table

On Ilinden, July 20, we honor the Holy Prophet Elijah.

Nouns:

Ilia, Ilinda, Ilian, Ilin, Iskra, Ilina, Iliana, Ilinka, Ilian, Iliana, Ilko, Ilcho, Ilka, Lina, Licho, Yulia

In folk beliefs, St. Elijah is considered the lord of the heavenly elements - the lord of rain, lightning and thunder. It is believed that this power was given to him by God at the division of the world. When Saint Elijah is in the fiery chariot through the sky then thunder and lightning occur.

Customs

One of the biggest customs of Ilinden is the sacrifice, the oldest rooster is sacrificed.

If it thunders on Ilinden, the fruit trees will be damaged, the walnuts and hazelnuts will be empty. There will be a drought, but only the wine will be good. According to the folk beliefs of Ilinden, one should not work because lightning can strike a person, Saint Elijah is considered the patron of tanners, brewers and potters.

Dining room:

As we have already mentioned, a rooster is prepared at the table for Ilinden. Beef breast or steaks with vegetables can also be prepared. There is also ritual bread and seasonal fruits and vegetables.