Ever heard of a nameday?
January 17th, 2007
You might have, but just in case, let me tell you what it’s all about. The Orthodox Church in Bulgaria celebrates days dedicated to all Saints. For example, on January 17 it is Saint Anthony’s Day (Antonovden), where celebrations are to protect people from illnesses. It is also the holiday of all who bear the name of Saint Anthony.
On this day women do not spin, knit and cook beans, corn and lentil, because they might make the diseases angry.
Legend has it that the twin brothers Anthony and Atanas were blacksmiths and were the first to invent the blacksmith’s tongs. Anthony’s Day is celebrated as a holiday of the blacksmiths, ironmongers, cutters and shoeing smiths.
People named after the saint Anthony (meaning “priceless” in Latin) - Antonia, Andon, Dona, Donka - celebrate their name day on January 17.
