Good Friday customs and traditions in Romania

To-do customs and traditions on Good Friday

At dawn, households are filled with the aroma of incense as people perform a ritualistic circling of their homes thrice. Legend has it that rain on Good Friday signifies a prosperous year ahead, while dry weather forecasts a drought. Immersion in cold water three times on this day was believed to confer year-round health. In Moldova, visiting a barber on Good Friday is thought to ward off illnesses. Previously, worshippers would carry lit candles home from church. Another tradition involves abstaining from washing on Good Friday.

In certain regions, trees are fumigated with incense to shield them from wildlife, diseases, or pests. It’s believed that black fasting on Good Friday can remedy skin ailments and ensure a healthy year. In some locales, individuals sprint barefoot through dewy fields before sunrise.

Not-to-do on Good Friday

According to Romanian folklore, baking is prohibited on this day, as it’s believed that doing so would cause the hands of the Mother of God to burn. Consumption of nettles is avoided due to their association with Jesus’s scourging, and vinegar is eschewed since it was used to moisten the Savior’s lips. Animal sacrifices are forbidden, and housewives refrain from frying eggs or preparing for Easter.

Farmers are advised against working or sowing seeds on Good Friday, as they are thought not to flourish. Mowing, washing, and cleaning are also discouraged. Some individuals avoid visiting the barber on this day, fearing superstitions about potential loss of loved ones.