Ukrainian Christmas Traditions and Mythology: A Festive Exploration
Today, we will delve into fascinating topics about Ukrainian traditions at Christmas. While our primary focus will be on Christmas customs, we'll also venture into the realm of Ukrainian mythology to explore how mythical creatures partake in the season's celebrations. Additionally, we'll discuss the vibrant festivities of Malanka, a holiday where people dress up as these mythical beings.
Christianity and Mythology in Ukraine
Christianity and demonology have coexisted in Ukraine since ancient times. When Prince Volodymyr introduced Christianity, many Ukrainians struggled to fully embrace the new religion, retaining elements of their pagan beliefs. Ukrainian mythology differs from Greek mythology, which features gods living on Olympus. Instead, Ukrainians remember beings like the chort (devil), who live among people. These creatures are not malevolent in the biblical sense and often help humans.
Mythical Helpers: The Domovyk
One prominent mythical figure is the domovyk, a household spirit that protects families and their homes. During the Christmas season, the domovyk is believed to aid those observing the Christmas fast, which lasts 40 days. Ukrainians traditionally clean their homes, renew tools, and stock up on essentials before Christmas Eve. Decorating icons with clean towels and adorning homes for the holiday also reflect a blend of Christian and pagan customs.
Christmas Eve: Holy Supper and Kolyada
Christmas Eve, or Sviatyi Vechir, is marked by the Holy Supper (Sviata Vecheria), featuring 12 fasting dishes, symbolizing the months of the year. The centerpiece is rich kutia — a dish of boiled wheat or barley mixed with honey and plant-based ingredients. Originally, kutia served as a symbolic offering to the god Veles for a bountiful harvest.
Family traditions include leaving two bowls empty for deceased or absent family members. The evening begins with a prayer and lighting a Christmas candle in memory of ancestors. After dinner, caroling (kolyada) commences, blending pagan and Christian elements. Carolers carry a star symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem and perform songs and skits in exchange for sweets or money.
Malanka and the Christmas Goat
Malanka, celebrated in mid-January, features people dressing as mythical creatures in a mix of humor and reverence. The "Christmas Goat" (Koza) is a central figure, symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The goat’s dance and symbolic “death” are believed to invoke natural renewal. This ritual, tied to ancient agrarian and magical practices, showcases the enduring interplay between pagan rites and Christian festivities.
Mythical Creatures During Christmas
Mythical beings are believed to join Ukrainians in celebrating Christmas.
- Blud: A mischievous spirit who leads travelers astray. Legends describe Blud as a fallen angel who clings to those who encounter him, creating confusion. Protection against him includes prayers, the cross, and sacred items.
- Mavkas: Ethereal beings born from unbaptized children or those who died during the Mermaid Week. Mavkas appear as beautiful young women or children with visible insides from the back. Despite their eerie appearance, they celebrate Christmas and, surprisingly, many have embraced Christianity.
- Chugaister: A Carpathian spirit, Chugaister protects people in the forest and symbolizes friendship and wisdom. Known for his strength and musical talent, he helps those who offer him kutia during the holiday season.
- Poludnytsia: A midday spirit associated with sunstroke, Poludnytsia is less benevolent. She punishes those working at noon and is immune to Christian customs.
The Soviet Suppression of Christmas
During Soviet rule, Christmas faced suppression as authorities sought to eliminate religious practices. The Gregorian calendar placed New Year’s celebrations ahead of Christmas, overshadowing the latter. Anti-religious lectures, entertainment events, and strict work schedules prevented many from attending church. Teachers discouraged caroling, while the media derided Christmas traditions as relics of "drunkenness and debauchery."
Despite these efforts, Ukrainians preserved their customs, celebrating behind closed doors. By the 1950s, Christmas caroling and traditions began reemerging in rural areas, particularly in western Ukraine.
A Unique Blend of Faith and Folklore
Ukrainian Christmas is a rich tapestry of Christian and pagan traditions, weaving together religious observances and mythical lore. From the solemnity of the Holy Supper to the playful antics of carolers and mythical beings, the season reflects Ukraine’s vibrant cultural heritage. This enduring blend of faith and folklore continues to captivate and inspire, offering a glimpse into the heart of Ukrainian identity.
Article based on lecture conducted by Valeria, an expert on Ukrainian mythology (Instagram of Valeria)