On April 21, Eastern Rite Christians celebrate Maundy Thursday - the fourth day of Holy Week.. On this day, believers continue to prepare for Easter, it is customary to bake paska.

It is believed that on this day Christ gathered 12 apostles for a meal known as the Last Supper.. During the meal, Christ established the sacrament of the Eucharist (communion). He also taught the commandments of Christian love and humility.

[see_also ids\u003d"

Jesus also told his disciples that one of them would betray him. He knew the name of the traitor, but did not say it out loud.

Before the supper, Christ washed the feet of his disciples, which became a symbol of love and humility..

What to do on Maundy Thursday.

It is believed that on this day the water acquires healing power.. Therefore, adults and children wash before dawn. After that, you should confess and take communion.

It was customary to put the house in order for the holiday. A candle, which was brought from the church in the evening, burned a cross over the front door and kept it until the next Maundy Thursday. On the same day, the housewives prepared salt for the Easter table.. A lump of salt was wrapped in cloth and placed in the oven.. After the fabric decayed, the salt was taken out and stored until Easter, and on Easter morning the owner put this salt on bread and placed it under the icons..

It is believed that Maundy Thursday is the most auspicious day for giving a child their first haircut.. It is believed that the hair will then be thick and healthy.. For the same reason, women and girls do haircuts..

On this day, housewives traditionally bake paska.

What not to do on Maundy Thursday.

On this day you can not swear, quarrel and swear.

It is forbidden to plant dirt at home, it is believed that this will lead to quarrels in the family.

Do not leave dirty dishes and linen overnight - this can attract illness.

It is impossible to bake paska before the house is put in order.

You can't eat paska on this day either..