Georgian Sabbath celebrations, national traditions and customs

The last day of Lent ends Holy Week, and the Saturday before Easter is called the Great One in honor of its completion.

Although this day continues to bring sadness, it is also filled with the expectation of joy, because the greatest Christian celebration – the Resurrection of the Lord - will soon come.

What does Holy Saturday symbolize in Christianity

In the Christian religion, this day is dedicated to the memories of how Jesus lay in the tomb, and about His being in hell. Early in the morning, church servants take out the shroud – this is a fabric with embroidery of Jesus or the Virgin. It is carried around the temple and placed in the center of the church.

During this period, it is necessary to observe fasting, especially for those who wish to take communion on Sunday. After morning services you can start eating and celebrate the Great Easter.

On the eve of Easter, the Holy Fire descends in Jerusalem. From there it is transported to all countries of the world professing Christianity. Many believers are waiting for his appearance until late at night in churches.

What do Georgians do on the day before Easter

On Holy Saturday, Georgians are engaged in the final preparations for the celebration of the Resurrection. They bake cakes, finish painting eggs (although they are traditionally painted on Friday) and go to the temple in the evening for the procession.

At midnight, a litany takes place, after which everyone congratulates each other with the phrases “Christ agdga!”, which means “Christ is risen.” In response, Georgia responds with “Cheshmaritad agdga!”, which in Russian is equivalent to “Truly risen.”

Various mass events, performances and theatrical productions are traditionally held for residents and guests of the country. All of them are symbolic, have a deep philosophical meaning, although sometimes comical and easy to perceive.

What should be the Easter cake

Easter cake is prepared in advance. In Georgia, every housewife must evaluate baking quality and taste, in order to have time to prepare a new one if any shortcomings are found.

1. The cake should be bright orange in color. They achieve this by adding a lot of homemade eggs. Their yolks of a rich yellow-orange color give the desired color to the dough;
2. The cake should be heavy. To do this, chefs prepare dough according to unique Georgian recipes. After all, it is quite difficult to make a heavy, but fluffy and soft dough;
3. Pastries should be sweet and have a spicy-musky aroma. Nutmeg-saffron seasonings and the necessary amount of sugar and honey will help here;
4. A church candle should be installed in the center of the cake, which is lit before the feast.