Folk signs for May 17: what should not be done on the day of Pelageya the Protector?

      Photo: Alice AI

      On May 17, Orthodox Christians commemorate the martyr Pelagia, the virgin of Tarsus. In the folk calendar, it is Pelagia the Protector: our ancestors considered the saint a defender of the wrongfully condemned and those suffering from injustice. This date was associated with many signs and customs in Russia, some of which are still known today.

      We will tell you what is forbidden and what is allowed to do on May 17 to avoid misfortune and not lose money, health, and family happiness.

      Folk signs for May 17: what not to do

      In ancient times, it was believed that one should not get a haircut on May 17. Allegedly, along with the hair, one could shorten their life. It was not allowed to give away one's clothes and shoes to strangers to avoid being cursed. Mothers were advised not to let anyone stroke their children on the head, as adults could take away the child's health, according to Russian beliefs. If a girl has not yet been betrothed, she should not have lunch in front of a mirror on May 17. This could lead to a loss of attractiveness. Those planning to go shopping were advised not to spend all their money down to the last penny. There should be something left in the wallet; otherwise, one would have to live in poverty for the entire year. On the day of Pelagia the Protector, it is strictly forbidden to lie. Those who disobey will soon suffer from someone else's lies. If you believe in signs, do not engage in handicrafts. This could "sew up" your luck. To avoid being left without means of livelihood, it is not advisable to take a nap during the day on May 17. For the same reason, it is better not to eat from cracked dishes. A husband and wife should not have dinner separately on this day. Our ancestors believed that this would lead to separation. Under no circumstances should one refuse to help those in need. This could lead to a streak of bad luck in life. At least, that is what our ancestors said.

      Photo: Alice AI

      Folk signs for May 17: what is allowed to do

      In ancient times, it was customary to start this day by washing with spring water. It was believed that it would grant a person beauty and youth. In the morning, believers would go to churches or pray at home. Saint Pelagia was asked for help in affairs, and the wrongfully condemned relied on her intercession more than others. On this day, our ancestors carefully observed the birds. The behavior of the birds helped them make weather forecasts. People in ancient times also looked at insects to understand what kind of harvest they could expect by the end of summer. On May 17, peasants worked in the fields. According to their observations, if they sowed carrots and beets on this day, there would be plenty of vegetables. It is suitable for working in the garden or transplanting houseplants. The date is also good for other tasks, as well as planning trips, repairs, purchasing household items, and washing laundry. Clean things were traditionally hung out in the yard in Russia: our ancestors believed that the wind would "blow out" illnesses from sheets and duvet covers. According to folk signs, to ensure peace in the family, on May 17, it is necessary to gather all household members at one table and brew tea with linden flowers. And to ensure that the wallet never runs empty, one should prepare nettle soup for lunch.

      On the night of May 17 to 18, one can see a prophetic dream. Most likely, it will concern the near future. Special attention should be paid to numbers: if they appear in your dream, it is worth writing them down – they may indicate dates or times of important events in your life. If you do not want the night vision to come true, tell its details to running water in the morning.

      Photo: Alice AI

      Folk signs about the weather on May 17

      A northern wind on the day of Pelagia the Protector warns of a cold snap, while a southern wind indicates warming. If it is warm outside, summer will be warm and fruitful. Birds flying low indicate bad weather ahead.

      Name days on May 17

      On this day, name days are celebrated by Anton, Athanasius, Valerian, Cyril, Lazarus, Leontius, Maria, Nikita, Nicodemus, and Pelagia.

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      Folk signs for May 17: what not to do on the day of Pelagia the Protector?

      Photo: Alice AI

      On May 17, Orthodox Christians commemorate the martyr Pelagia, the virgin of Tarsus. 07:23 16.05.2026 Online publication Living in Nizhny - Nizhny Novgorod

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