December 5th holds a special significance in the Eastern Orthodox Church, marking the day dedicated to Saint Sava, a revered figure known for his philanthropy and devotion. Saint Sava, using his inheritance, established numerous monasteries and hospitals, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and care.
In Bulgaria, Saint Sava is uniquely portrayed as a female saint, the sister of Varvara and Nikola. She is revered as a protector against the plague. Interestingly, some regions of the country celebrate the holiday honoring Saint Sava as a male saint, associating him with the guardianship of wolves.
“Varvara and Sava are believed to safeguard children’s health and determine their destinies,” explains local folklore. On this day, fortune-tellers and wise women engage in rituals to guide unmarried girls towards finding suitable husbands. Late at night, these young women venture to a secluded spot, carrying only a sieve and flour. As they knead the dough, the elder women impart wisdom about household tasks and the art of attracting a good match.”
The distribution of bread on this day is not only a gesture of hospitality but also a symbolic act for health and fertility. These rituals are believed to shield individuals from the harmful influence of evil forces.
Bulgarian mythology paints Saint Sava as the sibling of Saint Barbara (honored the day before) and Saint Nicholas (honored the day after). “Saint Sava, in popular belief, is the most benevolent,” says a local saying. “He always follows Barbara, imploring her not to drop ice grains from her sleeve onto the fields.” This imagery alludes to the preparation for the feast of Saint Nicholas, leading to the saying: “Varvara cooks, Sava bakes (kneads), Nikola hosts guests.”
December 5th is a day for celebrating names like Elisaveta, Sava, Savina, Sabi, Sabka, Sabotin, Sabotina, Slavka, Slavomir, Slavcho, Safka, Slavi, Svetoslav, and Svetoslava.
A groundbreaking revelation in the field of archaeology has unearthed a trove of ancient artifacts in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. The find, hailed as one of the most important in recent decades, sheds new light on the complex history and complex culture of pre-Columbian civilizations in South America.
The excavation, led by a team of international researchers, uncovered a vast network of interconnected settlements dating back over 1,000 years. Among the remarkable discoveries are intricately carved stone sculptures, elaborate pottery adorned with vibrant designs, and remnants of sophisticated agricultural systems.
“This discovery entirely reshapes our understanding of the pre-Columbian world,” said Dr. Elena Ramirez, lead archaeologist on the project. “The level of artistry, technological advancement, and social organization displayed by these ancient people is truly astounding.”
The artifacts unearthed at the site provide compelling evidence of a thriving civilization that flourished long before European contact. The intricate carvings on the stone sculptures depict scenes of daily life, religious ceremonies, and mythical creatures, offering a glimpse into the beliefs and customs of these ancient people.
“These findings challenge the conventional narrative of the Amazon as a sparsely populated region,” added Dr. Ramirez. “They demonstrate that complex societies thrived in this surroundings, adapting to its unique challenges and developing sophisticated systems of agriculture and social organization.”
The team is continuing its work at the site, meticulously documenting and analyzing the artifacts. They hope that further excavations will reveal even more about the lives and culture of these remarkable ancient people.
The discovery has sparked excitement among archaeologists and historians worldwide, promising to rewrite the history books and shed new light on the rich and diverse tapestry of human civilization.
The team’s findings are expected to be published in a leading academic journal in the coming months, providing a detailed account of this groundbreaking discovery and its implications for our understanding of the past.
## Celebrating Compassion and Community: An Expert Interview on St.Sava’s Day
**World-Today News** sits down with **Dr. Ivan Dimitrov**, a renowned folklorist and historian specializing in Bulgarian traditions, to delve into the unique party of St. Sava’s Day on December 5th.
**WTN:** Dr. Dimitrov, St. Sava is a figure revered in the Eastern Orthodox Church for his philanthropy. Can you elaborate on his legacy and significance?
**Dr. Dimitrov:** st. Sava stands as a beacon of compassion and selfless service. Utilizing his inheritance, he established numerous monasteries and hospitals, extending care to the marginalized and the sick.His legacy transcends religious boundaries, inspiring acts of kindness and generosity across generations.
**WTN:** Bulgaria presents a fascinating twist on the representation of St. Sava. Could you explain the gender variation and its unique cultural context?
**Dr. Dimitrov:** Bulgarian folklore portrays St. Sava uniquely as a female saint, a protector against the plague. Interestingly, some regions celebrate St. Sava as a male saint, associating him with wolves. This duality reflects the rich tapestry of local beliefs and traditions that have evolved over centuries. The female St. Sava embodies the nurturing and protective aspects often attributed to women in folklore,while the male St. Sava preserves a connection to nature and its wild elements.
**WTN:** December 5th is deeply intertwined with rituals and traditions. Can you shed light on the practices associated with this day?
**Dr. Dimitrov:** December 5th is a day imbued with tradition. Fortune-telling rituals, guided by wise women and elders, are central to the celebrations. Young women engage in symbolic actions, like kneading dough under the moonlight, seeking guidance on finding suitable partners.The distribution of bread holds both practical and symbolic significance, symbolizing hospitality, health, and fertility.
**WTN:** How does St. sava relate to the other saints celebrated around this time, especially St. Barbara and St. Nicholas?
**Dr. Dimitrov:** Bulgarian folklore depicts St. Sava as the sibling of St. Barbara and St. Nicholas. This familial connection underscores the interwoven nature of these celebrations.
Popular sayings like, “Saint Sava, always imploring Barbara not to drop ice grains onto the fields,” highlight the interconnectedness of these three saints.
**WTN:** what significance does St. Sava’s Day hold for Bulgarians today?
**dr.Dimitrov:** Though rooted in ancient traditions, St. Sava’s Day continues to hold relevance for Bulgarians. It’s a day for celebrating community, family, and the enduring power of compassion. The rituals, though adapted over time, serve as a reminder of the importance of human connection, tradition, and the enduring legacy of figures like St. Sava.
