Saint Elijah (2 August): why households put honey on the table

On 2 August the Orthodox calendar honours Saint Elijah the Thunderer, a figure wrapped in prophecy and popular reverence. The day is marked by longstanding customs that mix cautionary taboos with rituals meant to bring protection and a sweet year ahead.

According to tradition, Saint Elijah was born in the town of Tesvit and showed signs of being chosen from birth: his father allegedly saw angels wrap him in fire and feed him with flame. He spent his youth in the desert in prayer and, because he foretold events accurately, was persecuted by King Ahab and Queen Jezebel.

Customs and prohibitions for the day

People avoid work on Saint Elijah's day — both in the fields and at home — out of fear that labour could draw the saint's displeasure. Honey plays a central role in observance: households bring a jar of honey to the table or eat honey that day because it is believed to bring a sweet year. In earlier times mothers would smear children with honey for health.

Weather omens are also part of the folk calendar. If thunder sounds on 2 August, gardeners worry that hazelnut and walnut crops will be ruined. Another old warning is not to bathe in rivers on this day. A widespread saying puts the turning of the seasons into words: "From Saint Elijah, the sun becomes milder."

Two days later, on 4 August, people mark Blaga Marija, popularly regarded as Saint Elijah's sister. Although not as prominent in the liturgical calendar, the day has its own domestic customs: women who go to church, light a candle and pray may ask for one wish to be fulfilled.

For many families the combination of rest, a pot of honey and small devotional acts remains the way to honour Saint Elijah and seek his protection: a candle lit in the home, a quiet table and readiness to watch the sky when storms roll in.

Photo: press material from the event