The Church advises: in order not to be the last in the Kingdom of Heaven, you do not need to be the first to rush to containers with holy water
On Monday, January 19, Russian Orthodox Church notes Holy Epiphany, Epiphany. Every year on this day Orthodox churches Thousands of people are reaching out with water containers. But, unfortunately, many of them have little understanding of how to properly use water, how to store it, and what absolutely cannot be done with it.
About the terms of use Epiphany water The rector of the cathedral in the name of the Holy Blessed Prince Alexander Nevsky, Archpriest Alexander Novopashin, told the correspondent of “Evening Novosibirsk” Valery Melnikov.
Father Alexander, why is the feast of Epiphany also called Epiphany and what is the difference between the water of Epiphany and Epiphany?
The holiday of Epiphany is based on the Gospel story of how the Savior was baptized in the waters of the Jordan. During baptism, the Holy Spirit descended on Christ in the form of a dove, and the voice of God the Father was heard from Heaven: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” That is, at baptism three faces appeared to people Holy Trinity: God the Father (voice from heaven), God the Holy Spirit (in the form of a dove) and God the Son, Jesus Christ. Therefore, this holiday is also called Epiphany. Since water-blessing prayers are performed twice: on Epiphany Eve and on the feast of Epiphany itself, there is a belief that the water blessed on these days is different. This is not true, since the rite of the Great Blessing of Water on these days is the same. And the water blessed on Christmas Eve and the feast of Epiphany is the same and is called Epiphany or Epiphany.
-Is it true that silver is used to consecrate water?
Very often we observe how people look into containers with holy water and try to see a silver cross there, but no silver is used when blessing water - the water is blessed by prayer, and the crosses that are dipped into water during the blessing of water are often made of wood.
- Some people are confused by the fact that water from a hose is constantly added to containers with holy water.
This should not bother anyone - when combined with holy water plain water is also sanctified, it is not for nothing that there is a saying “A drop of holy water sanctifies the sea.” For the same reason, it is not necessary to fill full containers; you can add plain water to holy water at home in the same way. It is advisable to come for water with cans; glassware often breaks in the commotion. Plastic bottles slow down the release of water, but if there are no other dishes, then the bottles must be rinsed in advance to remove beer sediments and residues of flavored drinks. Labels on plastic bottles must be washed off. At home I usually use holy water from plastic bottles pour into a glass container and cover with a loose lid. To ensure that holy water is not confused with anything else, the dishes are signed or special stickers are placed on them. Holy water should be stored in an appropriate place. For example, you cannot place it next to alcoholic beverages. To ensure that Epiphany water is always available throughout the year, regular water is added to the container as it is consumed. Some people prefer to pour holy water from a container in small doses and add it to a bowl of plain water.
- Often people take water, but they themselves don’t really know what to do with it.
On the day of Epiphany, when holy water is brought home, it is customary to sprinkle the room with it, so that the Lord, with the grace of the Holy Spirit, will sanctify the home of believers. The walls in each room and all utility rooms are sprinkled with holy water with the prayer “In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen,” and whoever knows, sings the troparion ( a short prayer) the feast of Epiphany. During the year, they usually drink holy water in the morning, after reading a special prayer “For receiving prosphora and holy water.” If you do not have prosphora, then in the prayer the word “prosphora” is omitted.
They drink Epiphany water strictly on an empty stomach. There are two exceptions to this rule: you can drink water not on an empty stomach on the day of the holiday, when water is taken in the church, and in case of serious illness. Some housewives specially prepare water for Epiphany so that they can then pickle cucumbers in it, because they believe that cucumbers pickle better in the water collected on the day of Epiphany. As they say, according to your faith, it will be for you: pickling cucumbers in water blessed in the church is a sin.
- Is it possible to bathe sick children in holy water?
This is strictly forbidden, since holy water will mix with dirt, and after bathing it will drain into the sewer. If a child is sick, then you need to give him holy water to drink, and you can also wet your face with it.
- What to do if holy water blooms for some reason?
This sometimes happens, and most often not because of improper storage, but for spiritual reasons, and such a situation is a reason to go to confession. And the bloomed water should be poured either into indoor flowers, either outside the city under bushes, or into running water (river, stream). You also need to handle the water you use to rinse the container from last year’s holy water. There is another way - water is poured into small containers, placed on a heating radiator and gradually evaporates.
Father Alexander, the tradition of stocking up on holy water for the feast of Epiphany was preserved even during the times of militant atheism, but the very sight of people literally fighting to the death near water containers is upsetting.
It is truly sad to see such scenes. If you have come for holy water, then you need to be worthy of it. If it is difficult to stand in a long line, you can come another day. To do this, you need to know in advance the water distribution schedule, which different temples different. For example, in our cathedral, in addition to January 19, holy water will be poured on the 20th and 21st. The main thing you need to remember is that holy water taken with scandal is unlikely to provide the desired benefit. There is no need to be the first to rush to containers with holy water, for, as the Savior said: those who are first here may be the last in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Holy water– 1) water of ordinary composition and original origin (well, spring, lake, river, tap), miraculously acquired, as a result of a prayer service called , the properties of sanctifying and healing (according to the faith of the people who piously use it); 2) (sometimes, in some understanding) water from a holy source.
All our lives there is a great shrine next to us - holy water (in Greek, ἁγίασμα - shrine).
We first plunge into it when, upon accepting this, we are immersed three times in a font filled with holy water. Holy water in the Sacrament of Baptism washes away the sinful impurities of a person, renews and revives him in new life in .
Holy water is necessarily present during the consecration of temples and all objects used in, during the consecration of residential buildings, buildings, any household item. We are sprinkled with holy water on religious processions, during prayer services.
« Blessed water, – wrote Saint Demetrius of Kherson, – has the power to sanctify the souls and bodies of all who use it" She, accepted with faith and prayer, heals our bodily illnesses. After the confession of the pilgrims, the monk always gave them to drink from the cup of holy Epiphany water.
Is it possible to sprinkle holy water on unclean places?
There is the power of the cross as something protecting, like an exorcism. We can sanctify something in the sense of “filling with grace,” but we sprinkle something (say, a toilet) with baptismal holy water so that no evil is hidden there, and not for the consumption of holy things there.
Is it possible to drink holy water on an empty stomach?
According to tradition, holy water is taken on an empty stomach in the morning, which is understandable: first of all, a person eats the holy thing, and then proceeds to ordinary food. As for the remaining days, in the Typikon (Typikon, chapter 48 - month book, January 6, 1st “zri”). It is said that it is unwise to abstain from holy water because of eating food:
« Let it be known to everyone about holy water: those who separate themselves from holy water for the reason that they have already tasted food are not doing good, for the grace of God is given for the sanctification of the world and all creation. We also sprinkle it everywhere, in all unclean places, and even under our feet. And where is the intelligence of those who do not drink it because they eat food?».
Twice a year, Orthodox believers have the opportunity to collect Epiphany water, which is especially powerful. healing power. The holiday of Epiphany is considered one of the most revered in Christian religion. On this day, God appeared in Trinity to people and sent down His grace to them.
Features of Epiphany water
The tradition of water blessing has existed in the church since the 5th century. The liturgical records mention that all water element on earth on this day is sanctified. Christian churches all over the world they perform a special ceremony for its consecration, reading prayers dedicated to this occasion.
Epiphany water has special properties that are known to all believers:
- she is able to give health;
- cleanse and convey God's grace to those who drink or wash themselves;
- this water remains drinkable after a year or more.
Some testify that the holy water remained fresh and pure even after three or four years. Even John Chrysostom spoke about this in his time.
Although, sometimes Epiphany water blooms. There is no need to look for bad omens in this. Microorganisms just live in water. It's more about the person himself and how he uses this water. Perhaps God is thus pointing out problems and incorrect life attitudes.
Atheists in Soviet times claimed that the preservation of baptismal water was due to the lowering of a silver cross into it by the priest. But how then can we explain the fact that people who did not have the opportunity to come to church stored ordinary tap water, and at the same time it had all the characteristics of Epiphany water? Seeing devotion to faith, the Lord, by His mercy, imparted grace to such water.
In the Russian tradition, the rite of consecration is carried out twice - on Christmas Eve and on Epiphany. It doesn’t matter which day the water was blessed. It has the same properties. It can be taken from any temple.
Attention! You need to collect as much water as you need for a year. At the same time, treat it as a shrine, do not cook food on it or add it to the bath. Epiphany water is drunk on an empty stomach. A few sips are enough.
Epiphany and Epiphany water: are there any differences?
Lay people are often interested in the question of what difference exists between Epiphany and Epiphany water. There are just no differences between them. The same rite is used in both cases of water blessing. Simply Epiphany water is consecrated on the feast of Epiphany itself, January 19th. And the water blessed on Christmas Eve is Epiphany.
Churchmen remember the events of the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist. At the moment when the Son of God was baptized, the Lord appeared in the Trinity. Hence the second name of the holiday - Epiphany.
Baptism of Jesus Christ
That is, in essence, Baptism and Epiphany are one and the same. Therefore, the water blessed on these two days is of the same nature.
Jordan and Epiphany water: what is the difference
There's really no difference. Water blessed on January 18 is called Jordanian. And the baptismal one was consecrated on January 19. But this is the same water, with the same energy and properties.
What is the difference between Epiphany water and holy water?
In churches, no one measured the parameters of baptismal and holy water with instruments. It's impossible to say which is better. Holy water will always remain holy. It’s just that Epiphany is timed to coincide with a specific holiday and is consecrated with a special rite, which is served only once a year. Both are holy water.
The only difference is that Epiphany occupies a place in the ritual life of Orthodox Christians special place.
Interesting facts from the study of Epiphany water
According to Christian tradition, believers believe that all water on earth becomes holy on the feast of Epiphany. But the manifestation of the grace of the Almighty is a one-time event, but the water collected after the Blessing of Waters rite is stored for a long time.
Believers remember that from that moment Jesus Christ began to preach until his crucifixion on the cross for human sins.
Epiphany water is considered the most powerful and healing
The phenomenon of Epiphany water was tested in laboratory studies. She was recruited from the lake in holidays. The water remained suitable for consumption for four years. Scientists were puzzled and decided to check its parameters. It turned out that Epiphany water is softer than usual, and its pH level is one and a half points higher. But none of the luminaries of science could explain why these changes occur.
Meanwhile, the clergy explain everything simply - water acquires such properties as a result of the influence of divine power.
When to go for Epiphany water
Since the first consecration of water occurs on Epiphany Eve in the morning, from that moment on the water is already considered Epiphany, and it can be collected. But in in this case What is important is not so much the time at which water is collected, but participation in its consecration.
Advice! It is advisable to attend the rite of Blessing of the Water and feel the whole atmosphere of the service. After all, without faith, even Agiasma can be devalued.
The clergy say that it will take two days to collect water. Moreover, from the moment the first rite of blessing of water was performed. The end of the Liturgy and the Great Blessing of Water is the moment when Epiphany water begins to be poured into churches. As a rule, the Liturgy is served in the morning of January 18, and in the morning of January 19, and sometimes on the night from 18 to 19.
Usually, water is not spilled during worship. But in big cities with a strong influx of lay people, exceptions are sometimes made. Need to check in advance organizational issues in the church to which the believer gathers.
How to use Epiphany water correctly
The shrine should not just stand in the house. Epiphany water is used to acquire grace for believers all year round.
Epiphany water is a shrine that must be treated with grace
On the holidays of January 18 and 19, they drink it all day. Weekdays involve drinking in small quantities before meals, with reading a prayer. It is drunk in a few sips on an empty stomach. But eating food is not a strict prohibition on taking holy water. The church places special emphasis on this. Especially if a person is sick or suffers from mental illness.
Important! Agiasma is a gift. An appropriate attitude towards water will allow it to fully demonstrate its healing properties. Drinking water must be accompanied by words of prayer.
Theophan the Recluse noted in his sermon that holy water is not church medicine. It will not help an evil and unbelieving person. It must be drunk with faith and reverence.
Is it possible to dilute Epiphany water?
There is an opinion that it is impossible to dilute Epiphany water with tap water. Allegedly, this contributes to the loss of its healing power.
But the priests say the opposite. The only caveat is to do this with a small amount of water and it is better to take it from a well.
Epiphany water is diluted while reading a prayer. A few drops of holy water are enough for it to transfer its grace to ordinary water. That is why it makes no sense to store Epiphany water in cans. A small vessel is enough, which will be used up in a year.
Is it possible to sprinkle an apartment with Epiphany water?
In home life, Epiphany water is used not only for drinking, but also to expel everything unclean and bad from the house.
The practice of sprinkling homes with Epiphany water is firmly established in Orthodox tradition. The dwelling is sprinkled and a prayer is said aloud, addressing the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. With the reading of the troparia, water is sprinkled first on the eastern, then western, northern and southern sides. It is also permissible to sprinkle material values that are important to a person.
But this rite cannot be equated with the rite performed by a priest when blessing a home.
Is it possible to heat a bathhouse?
We must not forget that Epiphany water requires respect. It is unlikely that using agiasma for bathing will make a person spiritually cleaner. But holy water poured down the drain is very bad.
Is it possible to swim in Epiphany water?
Nobody forbids you to plunge into an ice hole. It is important with what motives people do this. If for the sake of entertainment and thrill, then such a bath will not have the desired effect.
Cleansing ice font for the holiday of Epiphany
And in general, it is not so important whether people took a bath on the feast of Epiphany or not. What matters is only the faith and feelings that are invested in the actions of each person.
Note! Many people believe that you must plunge into an ice hole at Epiphany. Contrary to popular belief, such bathing does not wash away sins. For this there is the sacrament of confession and communion. But climbing into an ice hole is not useful for everyone, due to physical features health.
How to store holy water
After the blessed water is brought home from the temple, it must be placed in a glass or plastic container near the icons. Drink in the morning before meals so that the Divine grace of this water is transferred to your body and soul.
It is not forbidden to continue to use Epiphany water if it has retained its freshness and pleasant taste.
Otherwise, the spoiled agiasma should be poured into a place where no person can set foot, that is, not trampled on. For example, in a river or in a flower pot.
Important! Agiasma is a shrine that must not be poured into the sink drain or the first place you come across.
In conclusion, we can say that Epiphany water helps people with pious intentions. And it doesn’t matter at all how much of this water a person drinks or pours on himself. If he is callous in soul and weak in faith, such actions will not bring him the expected result.
Ecology of life: When we come to a festive church service, we first of all go to meet God, to meet that joy...
When we come to a festive service in a church, we first of all go to meet God, to meet the joy that, in theory, we should share at this hour with our loved ones and those around us.
But does this happen in our real life? It's coming soon Feast of the Epiphany and we will jostle in queues for Epiphany water (we wish we could get it as quickly as possible), plunge into all sorts of ice holes, but why? Just because we're used to it?
Traditions and rituals on the feast of the Epiphany
Everything we do must have some meaning, otherwise it is wasted work.
And, unfortunately, traditions, which were originally intended to have a beneficial meaning, in this regard take on an entertaining connotation.
Let's try to figure out what's what.
For answers to the most common questions about Epiphany water, we turned to priests Dimitry Baritsky and Andrey Efanov.
People often ask:What kind of baptismal water?
Epiphany water is water blessed on Epiphany Eve and on the Feast itself at the Great Blessing of Water. Often water that was consecrated on January 19 is called Epiphany water, and water consecrated the day before is called Epiphany water. In fact, the water on these two days is consecrated with the same rite, has the same properties and is called the Great Agiasma differently. "Agiasma" is translated from Greek language like a shrine.
Epiphany and Epiphany are the names of the same holiday. The Church remembers how Christ received Baptism from John the Baptist, and at that moment the Holy Trinity was revealed: the Son of God stood in the waters of the Jordan, the Voice of God the Father sounded from Heaven, and the Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove.
As a great shrine, believers bring home water from the temple, blessed on the days of celebrating these Gospel events, and keep it all year, until next holiday Epiphanies.
Which water is stronger - Epiphany or Epiphany?
Epiphany and Epiphany water are different names for the same water, blessed by the rite of the Great Blessing of Water on Epiphany Eve or on the day of Epiphany itself. The Feast of the Epiphany is also called Epiphany - hence the two names of the water. There is no difference.
Why is water blessed twice? There have been debates on this topic for a long time. Only in 1667 did the Russian Church decide to bless water twice - both on Epiphany Eve (the day before the holiday) and on the Epiphany holiday itself. Two water blessings go back to two different church traditions. The first of them is associated with the early Christian custom of baptizing converts on the eve of Epiphany, on the Eve of the holiday. But later there were so many people who wanted to become Christians that a few days a year were not enough for this. Baptisms began to be performed on other dates. The custom of blessing water on Epiphany Eve has been preserved.
The tradition of consecrating water a second time initially concerned only the Jerusalem Church. There was a custom there to go out to the Jordan on the day of the holiday to bless water in memory of the baptism of the Savior himself. From there, the custom of the second consecration of water gradually spread throughout the Christian world.
Water on Epiphany night
What happens to water on Epiphany night?
It is generally accepted that in Epiphany night all water becomes holy. This is stated in one of the stichera of the holiday: “Today the waters are sanctified.” That is, the entire water element on Earth is sanctified. But this is a one-time occurrence God's grace, while the water collected after the Great Blessing of Water does not lose its properties over time.
There is evidence of how, during the years of persecution of the Church on Epiphany night, believers collected water wherever they could, and, despite the fact that the priest did not say prayers over it, this water was stored for years and did not spoil. This can only be explained as a miracle: seeing the deep faith of people and their impossibility of being in the temple, the Lord gave them His grace.
There is a popular tradition on Epiphany night to plunge into the Jordan - a specially designated place on the reservoir. Sometimes you can hear the opinion that in this way you can “wash away all your sins.” But the Church reminds us that it is not water that helps to cleanse ourselves of sins, but the Lord through the sacrament of repentance - Confession. And He does this, seeing a person’s sincere desire to change. It is impossible to “renew” by taking a dip, drinking or pouring holy water on yourself.
On the Feast of Epiphany, believers remember how Jesus received Baptism from John the Baptist on the Jordan River, and from here, from that very moment, His Path began, ending with the Crucifixion and Resurrection. Only the desire to follow Christ, to be with Him not just one night a year, but every day, the desire to live like a Christian and participation in the sacraments of the Church help cleanse the soul.
When to collect Epiphany water - January 18 or 19?
Epiphany water can be collected both on January 18, on Epiphany Eve, and on January 19, on the Holiday itself. Water consecrated on Vespers (eve) and on the day of Epiphany itself has the same grace.
Agiasma begins to be distributed to believers after the Liturgy and the Great Blessing of Water. Liturgies are served in the morning of January 18, in the morning of January 19 (or at night from the 18th to the 19th). Epiphany water is also distributed after All-night vigil 18th in the evening.
In large temples in major cities Water can be collected throughout the day (and even around the clock) on January 18 and 19. But during services (Liturgies and All-Night Vigil on the evening of January 18), water is usually not poured. It is best to clarify in advance how the process of distributing water will be organized in the temple you are going to.
When does water become baptismal?
We begin to celebrate Epiphany on the 18th. Then the first consecration of water takes place. That is, water that is blessed in the morning is already considered baptismal. Then the water is also blessed on the 19th, directly on the feast of Epiphany itself. And she is also baptized. In general, this is the same water.
As legend says, on this day the entire water element is sanctified.
There is some symbolic moment in this, connected with the fact that the Spirit of God descended onto the water. It is clear that He does not descend on any individual container of water, but He descends on the entire element at once.
Epiphany water is called the Great Agiasma, that is, the great shrine, since this is the most important and final consecration of water.
Prayer for the consecration of baptismal water
Prayers for the consecration of Epiphany water are said during the Great Blessing of Water. This rite is performed only twice a year - on the eve and on the feast of Epiphany itself; during the rest of the year, the water is blessed with a small rite.
The Great Blessing of Water is more solemn than the usual one (at a prayer service for water, for example). First, troparia are sung, then Old Testament prophecies, a fragment from the Epistle of the Apostle Paul and the Gospel are read. All this reminds us of the Gospel event that the Church celebrates these days - the Baptism of the Lord.
Then the words “Let us pray to the Lord in peace...” begin the general prayer requests. Believers pray that the water will be sanctified “by the power and action and influx of the Holy Spirit,” and that holy water will help cleanse the soul and body from sins and ailments...
Finally, the priest, reading a prayer, censes the water, calling on the Lord to consecrate it. Then the priest immerses the cross in water three times. At this time the troparion of the holiday is sung:
“In the Jordan I am baptized to You, O Lord, Trinitarian adoration appeared: for the voice of your parents testified to You, naming Your beloved Son, and the Spirit in the form of a dove announced your words of affirmation. Appear, O Christ our God, and enlighten the world, glory to Thee.”
That is: “At Your baptism in the Jordan, Lord, the worship of the Trinity was revealed: for the voice of the Parent testified of You, calling You beloved Son, and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed His words as immutable. O Christ the God who appeared and enlightened the world, glory to Thee!”
When coming to the Great Blessing of Water, which takes place in a temple (or on a reservoir) after the service, it is not necessary to know any special prayers. It is enough to know or at least understand the troparion of the holiday, and also to listen attentively to the prayers heard during the consecration and, together with other believers, ask the Lord through the water of Epiphany to receive the grace of God and the healing of mental and physical infirmities.
When to go for Epiphany water
As mentioned above, water can be collected both on Christmas Eve and on the feast of Epiphany itself. However, it is important not just to draw water, but to become, as it were, an accomplice in its consecration, an accomplice in universal prayer.
Epiphany water does not turn into something else, it does not become some kind of “magic substance” that will instantly change a person’s life and cleanse him of all sins. No, that's not true.
We have important sacraments of the Church, such as repentance and Communion of the Holy Mysteries of Christ, which should not be forgotten.
It is not important when to draw baptismal water, but with what intentions, with what heart you approach the temple and perform certain actions. After all, if you don’t make any effort, even the desire to understand the meaning, then you can devalue anything in this way, even the Great Agiasma.
What is the difference between Epiphany water and holy water?
There is no device capable of distinguishing Epiphany water from holy water in degrees of holiness.
Epiphany water occupies a special place in, let’s say, ritual life. Simply by the fact that this water is blessed only two days a year, it is distinguished in a special way, is considered separate and is not equated with holy water. But there are no parameters by which one could determine why Epiphany water is better than holy water, what are the differences. This is the same holy water, only it is dedicated to a specific holiday.
Just as there is a prosphora of the Lamb (it is from this prosphora that the priest cuts out the Lamb - a rectangular particle that will become the Body of Christ during the Liturgy), but it is not in itself the Body of Christ - it is also the same prosphora that we eat.
How to drink Epiphany water correctly
It is considered correct to drink Epiphany water with faith, prayer, and on an empty stomach. Only two days a year - on Epiphany Eve and on the Holiday itself - believers drink water throughout the day. The rest of the time, it is customary to drink Epiphany water in the morning.
This is due to the fact that Agiasma is a shrine, and the attitude towards it is appropriate. Agiasma is blessed to drink as a consolation for people who, due to grave sins or some other reason, are deprived of the opportunity to receive Communion.
The Divine Service Charter stipulates that those who excommunicate themselves from holy water only because they have already “tasted the food” are wrong. Thus, if there is a need to drink Epiphany water (in case of illness, some kind of mental or spiritual illness), one cannot refuse just because the person has already eaten. But Epiphany water should always be received with reverence, as a gift.
As for the frequency of drinking Epiphany water, Saint Luke Voino-Yasenetsky said: “Drink holy water as often as possible.”
Prayer for receiving Epiphany water
The prayer for receiving Epiphany water is read the same as for receiving prosphora and any holy water:
In this prayer, believers turn to the Lord and ask him for help. But you should not rely only on the miraculous power of water and exclusively Divine action. While reading the prayer and receiving baptismal water, one must remember that a person himself must strive to leave sins and conquer his passions and infirmities.
What do they do with Epiphany water?
Is it possible to drink Epiphany water?
You can and should drink Epiphany water.
Two days a year - on the eve of the holiday and on Epiphany - Epiphany water can be drunk throughout the day without any restrictions, except for observing the fast established on Epiphany Christmas Eve. The rest of the time, according to established tradition, many believers take the Great Agiasma on an empty stomach (except in cases of illness, etc.). But at the same time, it is worth remembering that the Liturgical Charter says that it is wrong not to drink holy water just because of food intake.
Epiphany water has special properties, does not spoil for a year or more and can help in getting rid of physical and spiritual ailments. Saint Theophan the Recluse states: “...grace<…>does not act automatically as a talisman, and is of no use to ungodly and professed Christians.” Therefore, the Great Agiasma must be drunk not as “church medicine,” but with faith, prayer, reverence, and the desire to change oneself and go to Christ.
Is it possible to dilute Epiphany water?
You can dilute Epiphany water, and this will not cause it to lose its properties.
Therefore, it is not at all necessary to collect huge bottles and canisters on the Epiphany holiday. You can bring a small container home from church and mix it with regular water at home, or dilute Epiphany water throughout the year. This must be done with prayer. Even a few drops of Epiphany water will sanctify ordinary water.
But this does not mean at all that having collected Epiphany water once, you can dilute it for years. The main thing in the feast of Epiphany is communion with church life. Epiphany water may not lose its properties even after two or five years. But by refusing the opportunity to come to Church on the feast of Epiphany itself, pray together with other believers, and reverently take Agiasma as a great gift, a person deprives himself of much more than just a bottle of holy water.
Is it possible to sprinkle an apartment with Epiphany water?
You can sprinkle your apartment with Epiphany water. There is even a tradition, after the blessing of water, with the singing of the troparion of the holiday, to sprinkle your home with baptismal water.
During the Great Blessing of Water, the Church prays: “About the existence of this water, the gift of sanctification, the remission of sins, for the healing of the soul and body of those who draw from it and eat it, for the sanctification of houses... and for every good benefit (strong)”.
That is, you can not only drink Agiasma, but you can sprinkle it on your home and even various objects that are important to a person. But we must understand that sprinkling an apartment with holy water is not the same as the rite of blessing a home performed by a priest.
What to do with last year's Epiphany water?
Not everyone knows what to do with last year's Epiphany water - continue to store it, try to finish it as soon as possible, throw it away?..
Last year's Epiphany water can continue to be consumed as it should be - on an empty stomach with prayer. There are cases when Epiphany water is stored for decades and remains fresh.
If you are concerned about its safety, then you can pour the old Epiphany water into a so-called untrodden place (i.e., clean, closed from walking on it). We must remember that Agiasma is a shrine, and it cannot simply be thrown into the sink or anywhere on the ground. You can pour last year's Epiphany water into a pond with running water or in pots with home flowers.
When can you drink Epiphany water?
There is a tradition of drinking Epiphany water in the morning on an empty stomach with prayer. Two days a year - on Epiphany Christmas Eve and on the day of Epiphany itself, you can drink it throughout the day. However, the Divine Service Charter says that excommunicating oneself from holy water only because of eating food is wrong. Thus, if there is a need to drink Epiphany water (in case of illness, some kind of mental or spiritual illness), one cannot refuse just because the person has already eaten. But Epiphany water should always be received with reverence, as a gift.
At the same time the prayer is read:
“Lord my God, may Your holy gift and Your holy water be for the remission of my sins, for the enlightenment of my mind, for the strengthening of my mental and physical strength, for the health of my soul and body, for the subjugation of my passions and infirmities, according to Your infinite mercy through Your prayers Your Most Pure Mother and all Your saints. Amen".
How to drink Epiphany water?
The first rule is with reverence and prayer. We say on an empty stomach, but we must understand that this is not an absolute rule and it does not apply to all occasions. A person can take holy water, even the Great Agiasma, without an empty stomach, if some special conditions have arisen.
But, in general, this is a tribute to pious tradition - to consume it on an empty stomach, before tasting something else. Eating something sacred is not just a mechanical action, it requires faith and hope in God.
What can you do with Epiphany water?
How to use Epiphany water at home?
In addition to drinking water, according to tradition, on the feast of Epiphany they consecrate (sprinkle) their home with it. You can also consecrate any thing while reading the prayers prescribed for a layperson.
How to sanctify with baptismal water?
It is clear that a person can perform any sanctification independently. Just take a sprinkle or a tail from a rosary, holy water.
You need to moisten the brush in holy water and, with the prayer “In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,” sprinkle the room with it in a cross shape.
In prayer evening rule we have the prayer “May God rise again...”, you can perform consecration by saying this prayer.
There is also a prayer for the sanctification of every thing. It is also in prayer books, and can also be found on the Internet. So, you can read this prayer, and then sprinkle the thing you are consecrating in the same way with a cross.
How to sanctify an apartment with Epiphany water?
There is a special prayer for the consecration of a home:
“In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. By sprinkling this sacred water, all evil demonic action will be put to flight. Amen".
But again, the most important thing is to do everything with reverence and faith.
Is it possible to heat a bathhouse with Epiphany water?
It is possible and necessary! There is no such thing as too much holiness. On the contrary, you need to quickly take it and use it, because tomorrow there will be nowhere to get it.
Is it possible to swim in Epiphany water?
Of course it is possible, but it is very important with what motivation and what attitude we do it. It is clear that if we take this water and begin to somehow desecrate it, precisely by our behavior, then this will not be good, if it is used for cooking, or for a bath, or bathing, then this is wonderful. In this case, water should become a kind of symbol of internal cleansing. That is, it cleanses the body, but symbolizes the cleansing of the soul.
It is very important what attitude we put into our actions, be it bathing in baptismal water or something else.
And in order to join in this great joy of the holiday, it is not at all necessary to force yourself and your family to dive into ice holes. The main thing is to maintain faith and a good attitude in your heart. After all, why is it so necessary for us to observe everything down to the smallest detail, to be surrounded by everything material (bottles of water, for example) - because there is no faith.
Or maybe I’ll drink water or take a dip, and it (faith) will appear, suddenly I’ll see clearly. But this will not happen by itself. Where can good feelings come from if we have not made any effort for this?
Properties of Epiphany water
Why did Epiphany water spoil/turn green?
In our country, for example, Epiphany water lasts for a whole year and does not spoil. For many people, it lasts for a very long time, while other water would have spoiled long ago. And therefore, a certain pattern can be drawn here that, maybe this is due to the human condition . Perhaps he should think about how he lives, in case he uses this water for other purposes. For example, people often use this water for some magical rituals. Maybe the Lord is thereby showing the person that he is doing something wrong.
But if the holy water has spoiled, then you need to take it and pour it into some clean place under a tree, into a flower, into a river. And you can continue to use the bottle.
Does Epiphany water help you get pregnant?
Faith helps, and water acts as a kind of symbol, because we are material beings and we need some kind of created symbols. And water, earth, oil are created symbols. That is, we should approach it this way. And if a person drinks water, smears himself with this water, and so on, then why not.
I had an incident at my parish. The grandmother was the only one who really complained about herself for giving the cat baptismal water. And she gave it because the cat was sick. But as soon as she drinks, she feels better and gets better, but as soon as she stops drinking, her condition worsens.
In fact, the Lord helps animals through this holy water; in the missals there is an order for sprinkling cattle with holy water.
The same thing with Epiphany water. We can use it for pious purposes. Helping an animal is a pious goal. After all, the Lord loves and has mercy on every Creation.
Therefore, everything is possible by faith. The main thing is what mood we approach, what our motive is.
In order to meet with God, we must be ready for this meeting, we must be open to Him. Having abandoned all prejudices, finally tear your gaze away from the usual and look around you. But this is work that not everyone will do. What then do we want?
Let's first just strive for sincere joy and share it with loved ones. And we will try not to reproach others for doing something wrong, but, if possible, we will carefully guide them. We all have our own paths, we are in different circumstances, but what is wonderful is that each of us is unique, and the ways of the Lord, as we know, are inscrutable.
Happy holiday to everyone, dear friends!published . If you have any questions about this topic, ask them to the experts and readers of our project .
When to collect Epiphany water? Is Epiphany water different from Epiphany water? How to store it?
The rite of the Great Blessing of Water (Great Agiasma) is performed on Epiphany Eve (January 18) after Divine Liturgy and January 19 - the very day of the Epiphany. During both days, you can collect Epiphany water in any church. Both times the water is blessed with ONE rite, so there is no difference in when to collect water - on Christmas Eve or on the Feast of Epiphany itself, there is no difference between Epiphany and Epiphany water.
Every year on January 19, many people flock to church to collect blessed water, and thousands of those suffering to find health rush to swim in the ice hole, despite the Epiphany frosts.
Even in the distant past, people noticed that on the day of Epiphany the water becomes saturated healing properties. For example, when swimming in it it was impossible to catch a cold; it protected a person from damage, the evil eye and disease. It is interesting that the location of the source on January 19 does not play any role, nor does it matter whether church ministers performed a ritual on it.
The shelf life of Epiphany water is quite long. It does not undergo decay processes, and therefore can stand for years. Orthodox hieromonk Seraphim Vyritsky always recommended sprinkling food and food set on the table with it. In case of illness, the ascetic blessed the sick person and ordered him to drink one tablespoon of consecrated water every hour. The wisest old man said that there is no stronger medicine in the world.
WHEN TO TAKE WATER?
You can take water from the temple after the service; you can also bring your own water for consecration, but remember that it must be ordinary clean water, not mineral and not carbonated.
If you decide to simply draw water from the tap, then you need to do this in the time interval from 00.10. until 01.30. on the night of January 18th to 19th. You can store water later, but this is the best time.
Unfortunately, most of our people have a purely superstitious attitude towards Epiphany water. They take water as medicine and then try to heal with it. Firstly, it is better to collect water not thoughtlessly, but after you take part in church service. Secondly, you need to pour it into a container without any markings. Better - in a special jug or flask purchased in church shop. And certainly not in a beer bottle!
Epiphany water is believed to have healing properties. You can drink it when you are sick on an empty stomach and wash your face to stay healthy.
True, you need to use holy water with prayer, asking the Almighty for spiritual and physical health. And it is not at all necessary to take it in reserve, in canisters. There should be a lot of faith, not water.
HOW TO STORE BAPTISTIC WATER.
Epiphany water should be stored in a dark, cool and quiet place. glassware covered with a napkin. In this case, it is advisable to place the dishes close to the icons and away from the TV. Epiphany water can be stored for many years without spoiling at all.
WHEN TO SWIM.
There has long been a tradition to perform at Epiphany swimming in an ice hole.
The “great consecration of water” takes place in all churches. According to church canons, on Epiphany Christmas Eve, a believer must come to church, stand for the service, light a candle, and draw blessed water. But plunge into ice water no one demands, especially if a person is not ready for this.
Strict rules how to swim at Epiphany, No. But, according to custom, bathing involves immersing your head in water three times. At the same time, the believer is baptized and says “In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit!” Usually, long shirts are sewn for swimming, in which immersion is performed, similar to baptismal shirts. They are the same for men and women. It is believed that if parishioners wear swimsuits, then the bodies on display are discordant with traditional Christian decency.
Immersion in ice water is very stressful. The adrenal glands react sharply and powerfully to it, releasing into the blood a large dose of potent anti-inflammatory hormones, which are normally released a little at a time. They suppress all inflammatory reactions by simply “suppressing” the immune system, helping to withstand cold, and adapting the body to withstand stress.
If you properly prepare for a dive, a person with average health can easily endure a one-time dive. But if he is even slightly weakened, in three or four days he will have to pay for his courage.
Before diving into an ice hole, you should not drink alcohol - alcohol will only help with rapid hypothermia and put extra strain on the heart. You should not swim for more than one and a half minutes, or dive headlong.
Before diving, you should definitely consult a doctor. People with diabetes, arrhythmia, kidney problems, women with gynecological diseases It’s better to forget about the ice hole. Hypertensive patients may have a stroke.
It is also not recommended to bathe small children without preparation. At the same time, for both children and adults, the time spent in the font should be minimal, a few seconds, otherwise there is a danger of hypothermia. And in order to avoid frostbite, after the bath you must immediately stand on a dry mat, dry yourself with a towel and put on warm clothes, otherwise you risk spending the rest of the week in the hospital.
- Do not drink alcohol on this day. Drinking alcoholic beverages disrupts the body's natural thermoregulation with all the consequences.
- Before diving into the ice hole, you need to warm up your body; before swimming, you can go for a run, wearing a minimum of clothing, and do a warm-up.
- You should approach the ice hole in comfortable, non-slip and easily removable shoes to avoid excessive hypothermia of your feet.
- Before entering the water, you need to wet your face, arms, legs, chest, stomach and back and only then plunge up to your neck.
- You should not plunge headlong or dive (to avoid reflex narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain).
- Contact with low temperatures should be minimal, within 20-30 seconds, no more, in order to prevent serious hypothermia of the body.
After ablution, you need to rub yourself with a terry towel, put on dry warm clothes and go to a warm room, where you warm up to normal temperature. It is advisable to drink hot tea, preferably made from herbs, berries and fruits.
