Who should swim in the hole on the Epiphany of January 19 and what else to do on this day?

The baptism of the Lord in 2023 will be celebrated on January 19. It is one of the twelve major holidays for Orthodox Christians. On this day we celebrate the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. Of course, there are many traditions and rules associated with it. That's what we're talking about.



Editorial "Site" He talks about what can and can’t be done at baptism.

The baptism of the Lord in 2023 Traditionally this holiday is celebrated on January 19. But if you are going to switch to the Gregorian calendar and celebrate the holidays according to it, then Epiphany falls on January 6.

Many people love this holiday, because it is associated with interesting traditions. Christians believe that during this period water is endowed with miraculous properties. It is said to be able to heal people physically and spiritually. Because of this, there was a tradition of swimming in the hole, which everyone loves so much. Many believe that it is possible to cleanse sins.

However, the attitude of the Church to these customs is ambiguous. The priests believe that this tradition came to us from paganism. There is no word in the Bible about bathing. There is no such custom in other Christian countries. It's up to you to swim or not. It’s a fun and interesting tradition, there’s nothing wrong with following it.



We think you understand that you can not just dive into the hole in the middle of winter without consequences. You have to prepare for this kind of bath. Ideally, the preparation should last at least a month. It's best to be tempered since the summer.

If the decision was made spontaneously, you still need to prepare the body at least a little. Start with a contrast shower in the morning and evening. You can also get cold water. Doctors strongly recommend not to dive on the day of the holiday without preparation. It could be dangerous. Every year there are fatal cases.

There are categories of people who are forbidden to dive into the hole. These are people with high or low blood pressure. Contraindications can be heart disease, chronic diseases and pregnancy. Due to diving, old sores can worsen. Also, do not dive if you have an elevated temperature.



Who needs to swim in the hole? Perhaps there are no regulations in this regard. You should bathe if that's what you really want. Maybe it's important to you. This ritual will help you achieve your goals. If you don’t want to, it’s best to avoid swimming.



On Epiphany Eve, January 18, you must observe strict fasting. Therefore, the dinner should be modest and without alcohol. There must also be a kutya on the table. On Epiphany, as in any other holiday, you can not clean and do other household chores. It is forbidden to complain, cry, slander and gossip. It is very important not to be greedy, especially when collecting holy water.

Any disputes and clarification of the relationship are prohibited. It is necessary to spend a holiday at home, with relatives in peace and kindness. Don’t fight, pray with the whole family. It is also advisable to go to the temple.



Prayer on this day is the day of prayer. We can speak to God in our own words. But you can read a special prayer.

“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God. Do not be angry with my hearty request, but do not refuse infinite mercy. Bless me for wish-fulfillment and cut the hell out. May all things come to pass now and forever and ever. Amen.



In general, this is all you need to know about the Baptism of the Lord in 2023. Spend this day in prayer and tranquility. May he give you peace and kindness. Bright holiday!