The life of each person goes according to some established order. But few people think about the fact that some moments entered her unknowingly. In fact, what are rituals and what are they?
About the concept
Probably all people know that there are magical and religious rites that must be performed by special people with the help of specific rituals, prayers or spells. The action itself is a reflection of the history of an individual people, their beliefs, abilities and knowledge. Understanding what rituals are, it is worth noting that these are certain actions that our ancestors did at the set time of the day or year. In ancient times, and even now, however, with the help of such simple acts, people turned to the gods, the forces of nature, everything higher that could help in life (according to beliefs). The sacraments themselves at all times were divided into agricultural, which were designed to provide a good harvest, and family and household, which kept all members of the family. It is worth noting that the ancient rites were always carried out in special or better clothes, the man was thoroughly washed and completely put himself in order. Also important were special idols - deities worshiped and brought various gifts. Today, everything has changed a little, but we still pray to the icons, and we wear a cross on the neck. The essence remained, but only a few transformed.
About the past
Having understood what rituals are, it is worth considering certain of them. So, it was important for ancestors to appease the forces of nature in order to get a good harvest in the future. That is why pancakes and round loaf are baked in the form of a solar disk, thus this heavenly body is revered. The fire was considered to be purifying, therefore they jumped through it, purifying the soul and body, throwing pieces of food at it as a sign of gratitude. Certain words composed in verses are also special. Parts of ritual actions are modern carols and songs for round dances.
Pancake week
Knowing what rituals are, it is worth considering those that are firmly entrenched in our modern life. So, the most common mystical action inherently is such a holiday as Shrovetide. And if this day today most often simply retains its name, then earlier this date was accompanied by wide festivities and special events. The whole thing is connected with the lunar calendar. At this time, the forces of spring are struggling with winter for the right to live, the day is getting longer, more sun. It was very important to bake a lot of goodies, the main among which were round pancakes - symbols of the sun. Also, the fun that day meant that winter would soon be gone and give way to warm spring.
