Merry Christmas: The customs and prohibitions of celebrating Orthodox Christmas on January 7th are revealed

January 7th marks one of the most significant celebrations for believers in the Orthodox tradition in different parts of the world. Esta date, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Cristo, is observed in a profound way, symbolizing the end of the 40-day fast of Natividade and the beginning of festivities that honor faith and spiritual values. Milhões of people in countries such as Rússia, Ucrânia, Geórgia and Sérvia follow a distinct liturgical calendar, giving a unique character to this important celebration.

The difference in date is due to the use of the Julian calendar by some Igrejas Ortodoxas, which diverges from the widely adopted Gregorian calendar in the Ocidente. Essa historical distinction means that Natal is celebrated on January 7th, keeping alive ancestral traditions and rituals that span centuries of devotion. Observance of this calendar reflects unbroken cultural and religious continuity for many communities.

On the eve of the Orthodox Natal, it was a strict custom to fast until the appearance of the first star in the sky. Este emblematic moment symbolizes the Estrela of Belém, who guided the Magos and announced to the world the birth of the Filho of Deus. The fasting ritual prepares the hearts of believers for the joy and holiness of the celebration that follows, reinforcing spiritual discipline.

To enrich the festivity, various preparations and rituals are traditionally carried out, connecting generations through symbolic practices. Essas activities not only celebrate the central event, but also strengthen the sense of community and belonging.

Assembly of traditional nativity scenes representing the birth of Jesus.

Christmas carols are sung, with groups going door to door.

Exchange of sweets and blessings, reinforcing generosity and communion.

Biblical accounts of birth

The story of the birth of Cristo is a pillar of the Christian faith, detailed in Evangelhos of Mateus and Virgem Maria, under the suspicion of José, was divinely confirmed to give birth to Messias, as per the prophecy of Isaías. The couple’s journey to Belém, their hometown, for a census, became a milestone in this story.

Unable to find accommodation in the overcrowded Belém, José and Maria took shelter in a deserted cave, where the miracle of birth occurred. Maria gave birth to the boy Jesus painlessly, an event that Igreja lore considers miraculous and central to redemption. Esse moment of simplicity and humility highlights the sacred nature of the event.

The first to receive the joyful news were the shepherds, who were in the nearby fields and were visited by an angel. The heavenly messenger announced the birth of Salvador, prompting them to go to the cave to worship Jesus and share the miraculous vision they had witnessed.

The pursuit of Herodes and the journey of the wizards

Some time after the birth, the Magos, wise men of the Oriente, learned of the event and undertook a long journey to Jerusalém to worship the new Rei of the The arrival of these travelers and their questions about a newborn king caused great uproar and distrust in the then ruler Herodes. Sua authority and power were immediately questioned by the news.

Fearing for his throne, Herodes consulted the priests and sages about the ancient prophecies that announced the birth of a Messias. Upon learning of the birthplace and the prophecy, he secretly ordered the death of all children under the age of two in the vicinity of Belém.

Eternal values ​​of Orthodox Christmas

The celebration of the Orthodox Natal is a powerful reminder of the importance of timeless values ​​such as love, mercy and humility, encouraging deep reflection on the true purpose of existence. Esta date invites believers to prioritize inner riches over material possessions, promoting peace, tolerance and genuine care for others. In a world often focused on the material, Natal inspires the restoration of spiritual harmony and the appreciation of good deeds.

The martyr priest Leonid Serebrennikov

Igreja Ortodoxa, in addition to celebrating the birth of Salvador, also honors the memory of figures of faith who stood out for their sacrifice, such as the new martyr of the 20th century, Father Leonid Serebrennikov. Nascido in 1894 in the province of Vilnius, he embraced the priesthood in 1916 in Mosteiro of Sua life was a testimony of devotion and service.

The death of Father Leonid Serebrennikov, which occurred on Natal in 1919, serves as a poignant example of devotion and spiritual resilience in times of extreme adversity. Capturado and brutally murdered by a detachment of Bolshevik partisans led by Yefim Garmashov, he was drowned in a river. Sua story inspires the maintenance of faith and love even in the face of the harshest trials, highlighting inner strength and selfless service.

Digging deeper into customs for 2025

For the faithful who observe the Orthodox Natal on January 7, some practices are strongly recommended to fully experience the festival. Participar of the solemn mass in the church is considered essential, marking the center of the celebration and communion with faith. Este liturgical moment is crucial for the religious experience of the date.

After religious services, tradition dictates that families gather at the table for a festive feast, sharing food and the joy of the holiday. Este family life symbolizes unity and gratitude, strengthening the bonds between loved ones. Sharing a meal is one of the pillars of the celebration.

The act of exchanging gifts is a much appreciated custom, especially to cheer up children and reinforce the spirit of generosity. Além Furthermore, the date actively encourages the practice of good deeds and helping those in need, reflecting the love and mercy inherent in the Christmas message. Muitos dedicate part of the day to charity.

The celebration goes beyond the domestic environment, with the community engaging in acts of kindness and solidarity. The practice of helping the most vulnerable and extending a helping hand to those in need is seen as a direct manifestation of the teachings of Cristo. Essas actions reinforce the social and ethical dimension of the festival.

Inadvisable conduct on the day of the celebration

On January 7th, certain behaviors are discouraged by Orthodox tradition, aiming to preserve the sanctity and harmony of the celebration. Recomenda Avoid visiting cemeteries, as the day is dedicated to joy and life. It is equally important to maintain an atmosphere of peace, removing any negativity.

Avoid arguments, swearing and negative thoughts that could disturb the serenity of the day.

It is forbidden to complain about life, as legend suggests that this can attract a bad mood throughout the year.

Refrain from carrying out significant financial transactions, such as borrowing or lending money.

Furthermore, the choice of clothing is also relevant for observing the date, with the aim of attracting good energy and prosperity for the coming year. Divination, in turn, is a practice that does not belong to the spirit of the orthodox Natal.

It is not recommended to wear black, as it is believed that the color can attract poverty and bad luck.

Divination is not an appropriate custom for this holy day, being more associated with the Natal period.