From this article you will learn:

How paganism arose and developed in Ancient Russia

What gods existed in the paganism of Ancient Russia

What holidays and rituals were held in Ancient Russia

What charms, amulets and talismans were worn by the pagans of Ancient Russia

The paganism of Ancient Russia is a system of ideas about man and the world that existed in the ancient Russian state. It was this faith that was the official and predominant religion among the Eastern Slavs until the Baptism of Russia in 988. Despite the efforts made by the ruling elite, until the middle of the XIII century, it was paganism that continued to be practiced by most of the tribes that inhabited ancient Russia. Even after Christianity completely supplanted it, the traditions and beliefs of the pagans had and still have a significant impact on the culture, traditions and way of life of the Russian people.

The history of the emergence and development of paganism in Ancient Russia

The name “paganism” itself cannot be considered accurate, since this concept includes too much cultural layer. Nowadays, terms such as "polytheism", "totemism" or "ethnic religion" are more commonly used.

The term "paganism of the ancient Slavs" is used when it becomes necessary to designate the religious and cultural beliefs of all the tribes that lived on the territory of ancient Russia until the adoption of Christianity by these tribes. According to one of the opinions, the term "paganism", applied to the culture of the ancient Slavs, is based not on religion itself (polytheism), but on one language used by numerous, unrelated Slavic tribes.

The chronicler Nestor called the whole set of these tribes pagans, that is, tribes united by one language. To denote the features of the religious and cultural traditions of the ancient Slavic tribes, the term "paganism" began to be used somewhat later.

The beginning of the formation of Slavic paganism in Ancient Russia dates back to the 1st-2nd millennia BC, that is, to the times when the tribes of the Slavs began to separate from the tribes of the Indo-European group, settle in new territories and interact with the cultural traditions of their neighbors. It was the Indo-European culture that brought into the culture of the ancient Slavs such images as the god of thunder, the fighting squad, the god of cattle and one of the most important prototypes of mother earth.

Of great importance for the Slavs were the Celts, who not only introduced a number of certain images into the pagan religion, but also gave the very name "god", by which these images were designated. Slavic paganism has much in common with German-Scandinavian mythology, this includes the presence of motifs of the world tree, dragons and other deities that changed in accordance with the living conditions of the Slavs.

After the active separation of the Slavic tribes and their settlement in various territories, the paganism of Ancient Russia itself began to change, each tribe began to have elements inherent only to it. In the 6th-7th centuries, the differences between the religions of the Eastern and Western Slavs were quite tangible.

In addition, the beliefs inherent in the upper ruling strata of society and its lower strata often differed from each other. This is evidenced by the ancient Slavic chronicles. The beliefs of the inhabitants of large cities and small villages could be different.

As the centralized Old Russian state was formed, Russia's ties with Byzantium and other states were developing more and more, at the same time paganism began to be questioned, persecutions began, the so-called teachings against the pagans. After the Baptism of Russia took place in 988 and Christianity became the official religion, paganism was practically ousted. And yet, even today you can find territories and communities that are inhabited by people professing ancient Slavic paganism.

Pantheon of gods in the paganism of Ancient Russia

Ancient Slavic God Rod

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, Rod was considered the supreme god, commanding everything that exists in the Universe, including all other gods. He headed the top of the pagan pantheon of gods, was the creator and ancestor. It was the almighty god Rod who influenced the entire cycle of life. It had no end, no beginning, it existed everywhere. This is how all existing religions describe God.

The family was subject to life and death, abundance and poverty. Despite the fact that he is invisible to everyone, no one can hide from his gaze. The root of the name of the main god permeates the speech of people, it can be heard in many words, it is present in birth, relatives, homeland, spring, harvest.

After the Family, the rest of the deities and spiritual essences of the paganism of Ancient Russia were distributed according to different levels, which corresponded to the degree of their impact on people's lives.

On the upper step were the gods who controlled global and national affairs - wars, ethnic conflicts, weather disasters, fertility and hunger, fertility and mortality.

The middle step was assigned to the deities responsible for local affairs. They patronized agriculture, crafts, fishing and hunting, and family care. Their image was similar to that of a person.

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, there were spiritual entities with a bodily appearance different from human, they were located on the stylobate of the pantheon base. It belonged to kikimors, ghouls, goblin, brownies, ghouls, mermaids and many others like them.

Actually, the Slavic hierarchical pyramid ends with spiritual entities, this distinguishes it from the ancient Egyptian one, in which there was also an afterlife inhabited by its own deities and subject to special laws.

God of the Slavs Khors and his incarnations

Khors in the paganism of Ancient Russia was the son of the god Rod and the brother of Veles. In Russia, he was called the sun god. His face was like a sunny day - yellow, radiant, dazzlingly bright.

Horse had four incarnations:

• Dazhdbog;

Each of them operated in its season of the year, people turned to them for help using certain rites and rituals.

God of the Slavs Kolyada

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, the annual cycle began with Kolyada, its dominion began on the day of the winter solstice and continued until the day of the spring equinox (from December 22 to March 21). In December, the Slavs, with the help of ritual songs, greeted the young Sun and praised Kolyada, the celebrations continued until January 7 and were called Svyatki.

At this time, it was customary to slaughter livestock, open pickles, and carry supplies to the fair. The entire period of Christmas time was famous for its gatherings, plentiful feasts, fortune-telling, fun, matchmaking and weddings. "Doing nothing" at this time was a legitimate pastime. At this time, it was also supposed to show mercy and generosity to the poor, for which Kolyada was especially supportive of benefactors.

God of the Slavs Yarilo

Otherwise, in the paganism of Ancient Russia, he was called Yarovit, Ruevit, Yar. The ancient Slavs described him as a young solar god, a barefoot young man sitting on a white horse. Where he turned his gaze, crops sprouted; where he passed, grasses began to sprout. His head was crowned with a wreath woven from ears, with his left hand he held a bow with arrows, with his right he held the reins. He began to rule on the day of the vernal equinox and ended on the day of the summer solstice (from March 22 to June 21). By this time, people's household supplies were coming to an end, and there was still a lot of work to be done. When the sun turned back, the tension in the work subsided, then the time of Dazhdbog came.

God of the Slavs Dazhdbog

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, he was called Kupala or Kupail in another way, he was the god of the Sun with the face of a mature man. Dazhdbog ruled from the summer solstice to the autumn equinox (from June 22 to September 23). Due to the hot labor season, celebrations in honor of this god were postponed to July 6-7. That night, the Slavs burned a effigy of Yarila on a huge fire, the girls jumped over the fire and let wreaths woven from flowers float on the water. Both boys and girls were busy looking for a flowering fern that fulfills wishes. There were also many worries at that time: it was necessary to mow the grass, prepare supplies for the winter, repair houses, prepare the sleigh for the winter season.

God of the Slavs Svarog

Svarog, otherwise he was called Svetovid, took over the baton of power from Dazhdbog. The sun was sinking lower and lower towards the horizon, the Slavs represented Svarog in the form of a tall, gray-haired, strong old man. His eyes were turned to the north, in his hands he clutched a heavy sword, designed to disperse the forces of darkness. Svetovid was the husband of the Earth, the father of Dazhdbog and other gods of nature. He ruled from September 23 to December 21, this time was considered a time of satiety, peace and prosperity. People during this period did not have any special worries and sorrows, they organized fairs, played weddings.

Perun - god of thunder and lightning

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, the god of war Perun occupied a special place, with his right hand he squeezed a rainbow sword, with his left he held lightning arrows. The Slavs said that clouds were his hair and beard, thunder - his speech, wind - his breath, raindrops - fertilizing seed. He was the son of Svarog (Svarozhich) with a difficult temper. He was considered the patron saint of brave warriors and all those who made efforts for hard work, endowed them with strength and good luck.

Stribog - the god of the wind

Stribog in the paganism of Ancient Russia was revered as a god commanding other deities of the elemental forces of nature (Whistle, Weather and others). He was considered the master of the winds, hurricanes and snowstorms. He could be very kind and very evil. If he was angry and blew his horn, then the elements were in earnest, but when Stribog was in a good-natured mood, the foliage simply rustled, streams murmured, the breeze swayed the branches of trees. The sounds of nature formed the basis of songs and music, musical instruments. Prayers were offered to him for the end of the storm, he helped hunters to pursue sensitive and shy animals.

Veles - pagan god of wealth

Veles was revered as the god of agriculture and cattle breeding. He was also considered the god of wealth (he was called Volos, the Month). The clouds obeyed him. In his youth, Veles himself tended the heavenly sheep. In anger, he could send heavy rains to the ground. And today, after finishing the harvest, people leave one collected sheaf for Veles. His name is used when you need to swear honesty and devotion.

Lada - goddess of love and beauty

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, she was revered as the patroness of the hearth. The snow-white clouds were her clothes, the morning dew were her tears. In the wee hours, she helped the shadows of the dead to pass into the other world. Lada was considered the earthly incarnation of Rod, the high priestess, the mother goddess, surrounded by a retinue of young servants.

The Slavs described Lada as smart, beautiful, bold and dexterous, flexible in body, speaking flattering voices. People turned to Lada for advice, she talked about how to live, what to do and what not to do. She condemned the guilty, justifying those who were accused in vain. In ancient times, the goddess had a temple erected on Ladoga, but now she lives in the blue of the sky.

God of the Slavs Chernobog

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, many legends were composed about swamp evil spirits, only a part of them have survived to this day. The patron of evil spirits was the powerful god Chernobog, he commanded the dark forces of evil and whims, serious illnesses and bitter misfortunes. He was considered the god of darkness, who lived in terrible forest thickets, ponds covered with duckweed, deep pools and marshy swamps.

With anger, Chernobog, the ruler of the night, clutched a spear in his hand. He commanded numerous evil spirits - goblin who tangled forest paths, mermaids who dragged people into deep pools, cunning banniki, vipers and insidious ghouls, capricious brownies.

God of the Slavs Mokosh

Mokosh (Makesh) in the paganism of Ancient Russia was called the goddess of trade, she was a likeness of the ancient Roman Mercury. In the language of the Old Slavs, mokosh meant "full purse." The goddess profitably disposed of the harvest.

Another purpose of Mokosh was considered to be the management of fate. She was interested in spinning and weaving; with the help of spun threads, she wove human destinies. Young housewives were afraid to leave unfinished yarn for the night, it was believed that Mokosha could ruin the tow, and with it the fate of the girl. Northern Slavs attributed Mokosha to unkind goddesses.

God of the Slavs Paraskeva-Friday

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, Paraskeva-Friday was the concubine of Mokosh, who made her a goddess, who was subject to riotous youth, gambling, drinking parties with vulgar songs and obscene dances, as well as dishonest trade. For this reason, it was Friday in Ancient Russia that for a long time was a market day. Women at that time were not supposed to work, because Paraskeva, who disobeyed, could be turned by the goddess into a cold toad. The ancient Slavs believed that Paraskeva could poison the water in wells and underground springs. In our time, it is almost forgotten.

God of the Slavs Morena

In the paganism of the ancient Slavs, the goddess Marukha, or otherwise Morena, was considered the ruler of evil, incurable diseases and death. It was she who was the cause of fierce winters in Russia, rainy nights, epidemics and wars. She was represented in the form of a terrible woman who had a dark wrinkled face, deeply sunken small eyes, a sunken nose, a bony body and the same hands with long curved nails. She had ailments in her servants. Maruha herself did not leave, she could be driven away, but she returned anyway.

The lower deities of the ancient Slavs

• Animal deities.

In those days, when the ancient Slavs were mostly engaged in hunting, and not agriculture, they believed that wild animals were their progenitors. The pagans believed that these were powerful deities that needed to be worshiped.

Each tribe had its own totem, in other words, a sacred animal for worship. Some tribes believed that the Wolf was their ancestor. This animal was revered as a deity. His name was considered sacred, it was impossible to pronounce it aloud.

The owner of the pagan forest was considered the Bear - the most powerful animal. The Slavs believed that it was he who was able to protect against any evil, in addition, he patronized fertility - for the Slavs, spring came when the bears woke up from hibernation. Almost until the 20th century, bear paws were kept in peasant houses, they were considered talismans that protect their owners from illness, witchcraft and various misfortunes. In the paganism of Ancient Russia, they believed that bears were endowed with great wisdom, they knew almost everything: the name of the beast was used when pronouncing oaths, and a hunter who dared to break an oath was doomed to die in the forest.

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, herbivorous animals were also revered. The most respected was Olenikha (Moose Elk), the Slavs considered her the goddess of fertility, sky and sunlight. The goddess was represented with horns (unlike ordinary female deer), which symbolized the sun's rays. For this reason, the Slavs believed that deer antlers were amulets that could protect against various evil spirits; they were hung over the entrance to a dwelling or inside a hut.

It was believed that the heavenly goddesses - the Deer - could send newborn deer to the earth, which fell from the clouds like rain.

Of the domestic animals, the Horse was the most revered in the paganism of Ancient Russia. This was explained by the fact that for a long time the tribes that inhabited modern Europe and Asia led not a sedentary, but a nomadic lifestyle. Therefore, the golden horse, rushing through the sky, was for them the personification of the sun. And later there was also a myth about the god of the sun, who crossed the sky on his chariot.

• domestic deities.

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, there were not only spirits that inhabited forests and reservoirs. The beliefs of the Slavs extended to domestic deities, they were well-wishers and well-wishers, who were headed by brownies, who lived under the stove or in a bast shoes, which were hung over the stove especially for them.

Brownies were considered the patrons of the economy. They helped diligent owners to multiply the good, and as a punishment for laziness they could send trouble. The Slavs believed that livestock enjoyed special attention from brownies. So, they combed the tails and manes of horses (but if the brownie was angry, then, on the contrary, he could confuse the animal’s hair into tangles), they could increase the milk yield of cows (or, conversely, take away their milk), life and health depended on them newborn livestock. Therefore, the Slavs sought to appease the brownies in every possible way, offering them various treats and performing special ceremonies.

In addition to the belief in brownies, in the paganism of Ancient Russia they believed that relatives who had gone to another world helped the living. These beliefs were closely intertwined, so the image of the brownie was inextricably linked with the stove, the hearth. The Slavs believed that the souls of newborns come into our world through the chimney, and the souls of the dead leave through it.

People imagined a brownie in the form of a bearded man with a hat on his head. His figurines were carved from wood, they were called "chura", and, in addition to domestic deities, personified the deceased ancestors.

The Slavs, who lived in the north of Ancient Russia, believed that not only brownies, but also courtyards, cattlemen and kutny gods provided them with household help (the habitat of these well-wishers was a barn, they took care of livestock, and as an offering people left them bread and cottage cheese), as well as barns that guarded stocks of grain and hay.

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, the bath was considered an unclean place, and the deities living in it - banniks - were attributed to evil spirits. They cajoled them, leaving them brooms, soap and water, besides, they brought sacrifices to the banniks - a black chicken.

Even after Christianity became the official religion in Russia, belief in "small" gods persisted. First of all, they were revered less explicitly than the gods of heaven, earth and nature. The minor deities did not have sanctuaries, and people performed rituals designed to appease them in the family circle. In addition, the Slavs believed that the "small" gods constantly live next to them, they constantly communicated with them, and therefore, despite all the efforts of the church, they revered household deities in order to ensure their family and their home well-being and safety.

• Deities are monsters.

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, the Slavs considered the lord of the underworld and underwater worlds, the Serpent, to be one of the most formidable monster deities. He was represented as a powerful and hostile monster, which can be found in the myths and traditions of almost all peoples. The ideas of the ancient Slavs about him have come down to our days in fairy tales.

The pagans of the north revered the Serpent - the lord of underground waters, his name was Lizard. Shrines of the Lizard were located among swamps, on the banks of lakes and rivers. Its coastal shrines were characterized by a perfectly round shape, it symbolized perfection, opposing order to the formidable all-destroying power of this deity.

For sacrifices to the Lizard, they used not only black chickens, which were thrown into the swamps, but also young girls. These beliefs are reflected in fairy tales and legends.

For all the Slavic tribes who worshiped the Lizard, he was the absorber of the sun.

Over time, the nomadic lifestyle of the ancient Slavs was replaced by a sedentary one, people moved from hunting to agriculture. This transition also affected many myths and religious customs of the Slavs. Ancient rites softened, losing their cruelty, human sacrifices were replaced by rites of sacrificing animals, and then completely stuffed animals. In the paganism of Ancient Russia, the gods of the time of agriculture were much kinder to people.

Sanctuaries and priests in the paganism of Ancient Russia

The Slavs had a complex system of pagan beliefs and an equally complex system of cults. The "small" deities did not have priests and sanctuaries, people prayed to them one by one or gathered in families, communities, tribes. In order to honor the "high" gods, more than one tribe gathered, people created special temple complexes, chose priests who were able to communicate with the deities.

For a long time, the Slavs chose mountains for their prayers, and “bald” mountains, on the tops of which trees did not grow, enjoyed special reverence in the paganism of Ancient Russia. At the top of the hills, "temples" were arranged, that is, places where a drop - an idol was installed.

Around the temple, a shaft was poured, shaped like a horseshoe, on top of which they burned sacred bonfires - thieves. In addition to the inner rampart, there was another one that marked the outer border of the sanctuary. The space formed between them was called a treasury, it was here that the pagans of ancient Russia used sacrificial food.

Ritual feasts assumed that people and gods ate together. Feasts were held both in the open air and in structures specially erected on the haunt, they were called mansions (temples). Initially, only ritual feasts were held in the temples.

Very few pagan idols of Ancient Russia have survived to this day. Their small number is primarily due to the fact that most of them were made of wood. The Slavs used wood for their idols, not stone, because they believed that it had special magical powers. In the paganism of Ancient Russia, wooden sculptures combined both the sacred power of wood and the power of the deity himself.

Pagan priests were called Magi. They were called upon to perform rituals in sanctuaries, create idols and sacred objects, and with the help of magic spells, they asked the gods to send abundant harvests.

For a long time, the ancient Slavs believed that there were cloud wolves that soared into the sky and dispersed the clouds or called for rain in dry times. The priests influenced the weather with the help of a special bowl (charm) that was filled with water. Spells were read over it, and the water was then used to sprinkle crops. The Slavs believed that such actions help increase the harvest.

The Magi knew how to make amulets, that is, special jewelry for men and women, on which spell symbols were written.

Holidays and rituals in the paganism of the ancient Slavs in Russia

Since ancient times, people have been interested in the ability to influence various natural phenomena. Cold snowy winters or dry summers threatened many with difficult survival. By all means, the Slavs had to hold out until the onset of heat, to achieve a harvest. That is why the basis of the paganism of Ancient Russia was the seasons. Their influence on the life and life of people was enormous.

Pagan holidays, ceremonies and rituals were aimed at arousing the favor of the mighty forces of nature, so that they would allow a weak person to get what he wanted. Cheerful songs and dances were obligatory attributes of the meeting of spring and nature awakening from hibernation.

Winter, summer, autumn - every season deserved to be celebrated. The beginning of each season was the point of the calendar year that influenced the conduct of agricultural work, construction, and the performance of rituals aimed at strengthening friendship, love, and family well-being. These days were used to plan work for the coming season.

The months of the years were named in such a way that their main feature was reflected in the name (January - prosinets, February - lute, April - pollen). Each month has its own holidays.

The beginning of the January holidays in the paganism of Ancient Russia was given by Turitsa - on behalf of the Tour (son of Veles). This day (January 6) testified to the end of the winter holidays, at the same time they performed the ceremony of initiation into men. Then came the time of the feast of Babi Kash (January 8) - at this time all women and midwives were praised.

On the day of the abductions, which fell on January 12, rituals were performed to help protect and protect girls and women. To glorify the revived Sun and healing water, there was a holiday - Prosinets. There was also a day in January when it was supposed to appease brownies - people entertained them, sang songs.

There were five February holidays in the paganism of ancient Russia. In Gromnitsa one could hear thunder peals. Veles Day was celebrated on February 11 - from that moment the cold weather began to disappear, and spring and warmth were approaching. The Candlemas was celebrated on February 15 - the Slavs believed that on this day the snowy winter gives way to spring. On this day, the Yerzovka doll was burned and the spirits of the Sun and Fire were released. February 16 was Repair Day, when it was necessary to repair all inventory that had become unusable in a year. And on February 18 - the day of Remembrance - the soldiers who died in battles were commemorated.

The first month of spring in the paganism of Ancient Russia was marked by six holidays, among which were the feast of the Invocation of Spring and Maslenitsa (March 20-21). During Maslenitsa, it was necessary to burn the Marena doll, which personified winter. The Slavs believed that this rite entails the departure of winter.

There were many holidays in the summer. In June, Rusal celebrated the week, Kupalo, Snake Day, Bathing suit. In July, only one day was festive - July 12, when the day of the Sheaf of Veles was celebrated. On Perun's Day, which fell in the paganism of Ancient Russia in August, the warriors had to perform a special ritual with their weapons, after which they brought victory in battles. August 15 was the day of Spozhinok, at which time the last sheaves were cut. On August 21, the day of Stribog came - the Slavs asked the lord of the winds to save the harvest and not demolish the roofs of houses.

The paganism of Ancient Russia also had its own holidays in the autumn months. On September 8, on the day of the Family or the Mother of God, the family was honored. On the day of the Volkh Fiery, they began to harvest the autumn harvest. September 21 - the day of Svarog - was a holiday of artisans. November 25, the day of Marena, the ground was covered with snow.

The December holidays were Karachun, Kolyada, Shchedrets. During Kolyada and Shchedrets, various performances were staged on the streets and preparations for the new year began.

Among the pagan rites of ancient Russia are known:

A wedding ceremony that included a ritual of dressing, and on the day of the wedding itself, the kidnapping of the bride and her ransom. The bride's mother had to bake a kurnik and take it to the groom's hut. And the groom was supposed to bring a rooster to the bride's parents. At the time when the newlyweds were being married around the old oak tree, the wedding bed was being prepared in the groom's hut. As required by the paganism of Ancient Russia, a large and generous feast usually ended with merrymaking.

The rite of naming was performed if a person needed to be given a Slavic name.

Children under the age of seven were subjected to the rite of tonsure. It was believed that at the end of the ritual, the babies passed from the care of their mother to the care of their father.

With the help of rituals dedicated to the beginning of the construction of a house, they fought against evil spirits that prevented the owners or interfered with the construction through natural phenomena.

The rite of Trizna consisted in the glorification of the soldiers who fell on the battlefield, during the rite they resorted to songs, competitions, games.

As the understanding of the world by the ancient Slavs changed, so did their funeral rites.

The turning point occurred in the Proto-Slavic times, when the burial of the twisted corpses was replaced by the burning of the dead and the burial of their ashes.

Giving the bodies of the dead a crooked pose was supposed to imitate the pose of babies in the mother's womb; ropes were used to give the corpses this position. The relatives of the deceased believed that they were preparing him for the next birth on earth, in which he would reincarnate into some living being.

In the paganism of Ancient Russia, the idea of ​​reincarnation was based on the idea of ​​a life force existing separately from a person, which gave a single physical appearance to the living and the dead.

The dead were buried in a twisted form until the Bronze Age was replaced by the Iron Age. Now the dead were given an elongated position. However, the most significant change in the funeral rite is cremation - the complete burning of corpses.

During excavations, archaeologists have come across both forms of ancient commemoration of the dead.

Cremation in the paganism of Ancient Russia brings to the fore a new idea, according to which the souls of ancestors are in heaven and contribute to heavenly phenomena (such as rain, snow) for the benefit of those who remain on earth. After the burning of the body of the deceased, when his soul went to the souls of his ancestors, the Slavs buried his ashes in the ground, believing that in this way they provide the advantages characteristic of ordinary burial.

Among the elements included in the funeral rites are burial mounds, burial structures, representing a human dwelling, burial of ashes in a simple pot, from those that were used for food.

During excavations in the pagan burial mounds of the ancient Slavs, pots and bowls of food were often found. Pots for cooking from the first fruits were revered as sacred objects. This type of dishes in the paganism of Ancient Russia symbolized the benefits, satiety. Most likely, the beginning of this symbolism dates back to the times when agriculture and the use of clay utensils were born.

Speaking about the connection between the sacred pots for the first fruits and the urns for the ashes, one cannot but recall the anthropomorphic stove-vessels. These are small vessels of a simple shape, to which cylindrical or truncated-conical oven-trays were attached with round smoke holes and an arched recess at the bottom, which made it possible to fire with a torch or coal.

The pots that the ancient Slavs used to boil the first fruits during a special celebration in honor of the gods of heaven were the very link that connected the god of heaven, the god of fruitful clouds and cremated ancestors, whose souls were not reborn on earth in the guise of living beings, but remained in heaven.

The rite of cremation arose almost at the same time as the separation of the Proto-Slavs from the Indo-European tribes took place in the 15th century. BC, and existed in ancient Russia for 270 years before the reign of Vladimir Monomakh.

The burial in the paganism of Ancient Russia took place as follows. A funeral pyre was formed, on which the deceased was laid, then a regular circle was outlined, a narrow deep ditch was dug around its perimeter and a fence was built from twigs and straw. The fire and smoke from the burning fence did not allow the participants in the ceremony to see how the deceased burned inside the circle. It is believed that the burial mass of firewood and the regular circumference of the ritual fence that separated the world of the dead and the living were called "steal".

The pagan traditions of the Eastern Slavs suggested that at the same time as the deceased, animals, not only domestic, but also wild, should be burned.

The custom, according to which dominoins were supposed to be erected over the graves of Christians, survived until the beginning of the last century.

Amulets, amulets and talismans in the paganism of Ancient Russia

According to the ancient Slavs, charms or amulets, on which there was an image of a revered deity, made it possible to cope with problems and achieve what was desired. And today these items have their value, it is only important to use them correctly.

In Ancient Russia, everyone had amulets and amulets: both old people and babies. Natural phenomena frightened, illnesses and family troubles upset. People wanted to have influence on what was going on around them. So the gods and beliefs in them appeared.

The gods had their own spheres of influence, and their images and symbols were sacred. The deities were depicted on small objects that could not be parted with. Carrying his amulet with him, the man believed that strong and wise celestials helped him in this world.

The meanings of talismans in the paganism of Ancient Russia became known thanks to archaeological excavations. The sources of information about the life and customs of the ancient Slavs were bronze or metal household items.

And, although almost everyone has heard of pagan amulets and charms or pagan talismans, not everyone knows that these concepts are not identical.

amulets- items intended to be worn by a specific person, which contained positive or negative energy. They were painted, depicting symbols of deities or natural phenomena on them. In order for them to be useful, they had to be charged with the help of higher powers. In the culture of the ancient Slavs, amulets that were made by a mother, sister or beloved woman were especially important.

amulets were items or spells used to ward off evil forces. They could not only be carried with you, but also placed in houses, then they were able to protect the family from evil encroachments. Amulets were not charged, this was their main difference from amulets. They were originally able to protect their carrier. Spells or appeals to the gods could also protect a person.

Talismans considered objects that bring good luck. They were charged, but still they owed their action to faith. These things were made on purpose, they could be children's toys or something that was donated by a loved one.

The main purpose of amulets, amulets and talismans in the paganism of Ancient Russia was the protection of the gods. The symbols applied to them were of great importance in the culture of the Slavs.

Depending on the goals for which they were created, the pagan amulets of Ancient Russia helped in solving the following tasks:

protected from an unkind look;

provided protection for deceased ancestors;

guarded the dwelling from hostile forces and uninvited guests;

helped in protection against illnesses;

attracted luck and wealth.

On pagan amulets and amulets depicted a swastika, celestial bodies, images of the gods. Some amulets that protected from the evil eye or patronized the family could be worn by both men and women. However, in the paganism of Ancient Russia there were also such symbols that were applied only to male or only to female amulets.

Symbols for women's amulets and talismans

Women in labor - were an interlacing of rectangular patterns. These symbols were applied to the amulet of a woman dreaming of a child. After she became pregnant, it had to be worn until childbirth. Then this item was hung near the baby's cradle, so the strength of the whole family protected the baby.

Lunnitsa - the image of an inverted month symbolized female prudence, humility and patience in the paganism of Ancient Russia.

Yarila - with the help of signs and symbols they depicted the pagan god Yarila. The ancient Slavs believed that amulets, symbolizing the god of the sun, were able to preserve love and prevent feelings from cooling down. Although this item was intended for couples in love, it was usually worn by girls.

Mokosh - the symbols denoted the goddess Makosh, designed to strengthen the power of the clan. With the help of these amulets and amulets, peace and harmony were maintained in the houses.

Odolen-grass - a sacred grass that protected from dark forces and enemies. Signs symbolizing her were applied to protective amulets.

Molvinets - guarded the family from troubles, was depicted in the form of a rhombus. A charm with such an image was presented to pregnant women for a safe resolution of the burden and the birth of a healthy baby.

Wedding - in the paganism of Ancient Russia, it was four intertwined rings. A charm with this symbol was given to brides and young wives - the keepers of the hearth. He protected families from adversity and helped save love.

Lada-Bogoroditsa - pagan talismans with her were worn by young girls who dreamed of love and a happy marriage.

Symbols for male amulets and talismans

Veles seal - was a pattern with rounded weaves, which was applied to the amulets of gambling men. This item protected its owner from troubles and failures.

Hammer of Perun - in the paganism of Ancient Russia, it was a generic sign of men, guarding the clan along the male line, not allowing it to be interrupted, conveying the wisdom of the ancestors.

Sign of Vseslavets - protected the house from fire. Nowadays, the amulet helps protect against disagreements.

The sign of the Dukhobor - such items gave men spiritual power, strength and helped to improve themselves.

Symbols of Kolyadnik - in Ancient Russia they helped in battles, in our time they help to defeat rivals or competitors.

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ROD - Slavic God. The Supreme Almighty, the All-God is the beginning and cause of everything living and non-living in this world, he is in everyone, from here there are such Native and important words for every Slav as MOTHERLAND, NATURE, SPRING, etc. It identifies many Gods and Ancestors, it is one and many at the same time, when we remember all our ancestors: Fathers, Grandfathers, Great-grandfathers and Great-great-grandfathers, we say - this is our ROD. The genus is the most revered of the Slavic gods, and its image is the strongest amulet.

BelBog is the bright hypostasis of the supreme God of the Slavs of the Sort, the embodiment of light. God of good luck and happiness, embodying the universal forces of conservation and creation. He is the God of a bright and spring day, Happy life. Previously, our ancestors, the Slavs, did not start any serious business without glorifying Belobog. He is also considered the giver of wealth and fertility.

Svarog is the God of Heaven, the lord and father of the rest of the bright Gods.
Svarog is the patron and creator of heavenly and earthly fire, the patron and progenitor of the entire Slavic Family.
Svarog - God the blacksmith who created the obvious world, the visible universe (hence the word: “bung”, i.e. create, create something). Svarog sends the sun's rays to the earth, making it fertile, nourishes and warms the flora and fauna.

Lada - The female hypostasis of the Family. Goddess of love, beauty, marriage, abundance. In the name of Lada, the ancient Slavs called not only the original goddess of love, but also the whole system of life - Lad, where everything should be harmonious and fine.
The wife called her beloved Lado, and he called her his Ladushka.

Svetovid - many Slavic tribes honored Svetovid as the god of victories and war. A special feast was dedicated to Svyatovid - the name day of the barn, and they were celebrated only in the fall. Therefore, along with this, he was also recognized as the god of fertility; prayers were sent to him for an abundance of earthly fruits and prosperity in the house and in the Family!

Perun God - Thunderer, Slavic warrior, by his will prevents the forces of Darkness from destroying the Light, keeping the Forces of Reveal and Navi in ​​balance. This is God connecting the Earth and Sky with his Fiery Arrows, chasing evil spirits with strong lightning, and golden - fertilizing the fields. Perun is the god of thunder and just power, the protector of the Slavic lands and the patron of fearless warriors, the son of the God Svarog and the Goddess Lada. His path is the path of righteousness, alien to all wickedness and lies. Whoever follows him will certainly receive immortal glory and great power.

Makosh (Mokosh) - Great Goddess. She possesses the secret of Rule, the secret of the Destiny of all living on this earth. Both people and Gods obey her orders. She patronizes women in their household chores. Also, all divination and fortune-telling cannot do without Makosh, here she is revealed as the “Mother of the Lot” and the “Goddess of Fate”, fortune-telling, magic, to be under the auspices of this Goddess.
Makosh is a spinner, she spins the threads of fate into a ball, and, depending on our actions, weaves Share (good deeds) and lack (bad deeds and actions) into our ball of fate.
Makosh is also the patroness of marriage and family happiness, for one of the special secrets trusted only by Makosh was dreams of a betrothed.

Veles is one of the greatest gods of the ancient world, the God of wisdom and wealth, prophetic and Great.
Veles is the giver of earthly blessings and riches, the trustee of tillers and merchants.
He is the spiritual mentor of the wise magicians and storytellers, the patron of travelers, shamans and magicians. Veles is also the owner of Navi, the guide of human souls to another other world, the keeper of the ancient knowledge of the Vedas and the paths to the three worlds: Reality, Nav, Rule - Earth, Underground, Heaven. Depicted in a hat with horns or a horned helmet with a staff and a cornucopia in his hands.

Dazhdbog (Dazhbog) - Slavic God of white light, sun and heat. The giver of all blessings and the keeper of life on earth (hence his name Dazhdbog - the Giving God). Dazhdbog is the deliverer of people from the forces of the dark world of all wickedness. During the day he rides across the sky on a golden chariot, holding a shield in his right hand - the Sun, and at night he sails on a silver boat in the underworld.

Alive - the Slavic Goddess, the personification of all earthly life, as well as fruitful strength, youth, beauty, fertility and birth!
Goddess Alive, gives kindness, tenderness, cordiality and attentiveness to pregnant women and nursing mothers, so she protects all the girls who have yet to give birth to Slavic children.

GOD KUPALA (Kupalo) - God, who gives a person the opportunity to perform all kinds of Ablutions and conducts the Rites of Purification of the Teles, Soul and Spirit from various ailments and diseases. God guides to a joyful and happy life.

Kupala is a cheerful and beautiful God, dressed in light white robes decorated with flowers. On the head of God Kupala there is a wreath of beautiful flowers.

Kupala was revered as the God of the warm time of Summer, wild flowers and wild fruits.

Many Slavic-Aryan Clans engaged in field cultivation revered God Kupala along with the Goddess Makosh and Goddess Tara, as well as the Gods - Perun and Beles.

Before the beginning of the harvest and the harvest of field fruits, in honor of God Kupala, a holiday was celebrated at which bloodless sacrifices were made to God Kupala, as well as to all the Ancient Gods and Ancestors.

On the holiday, the Orthodox Old Believers-Ynglings throw their bloodless sacrifices and trebs into the fire of the Sacred Swastika Altar so that everything sacrificed appears on the festive tables of the Gods and Ancestors.

After bringing bloodless sacrifices from the living fire of the Sacred Swastika Altar, the Community members light candles and fire pits, which are fixed on wreaths and rafts and sent along the rivers. - diseases, all sorts of failures, various problems, etc. This rite can be explained as follows.

A burning candle or firelight illuminates the request or desire of the Community, the water of the river remembers them and, evaporating, rises to Heaven, conveying to the Gods all the requests and desires of the Orthodox Old Believers.

At the feast, each of the Orthodox Old Believers must undergo a complete purification in order to fully cleansed begin to collect field fruits and begin the field harvest. The complete cleansing of the Orthodox Old Believers consists of three parts:

First Purification (Purification of the Body)

Everyone present at the celebration on the Day of God Kupala must wash his body in sacred waters (rivers, lakes, ponds, etc.) to wash away fatigue and dirt.

Second Purification (Purification of the Soul)

In order for those present at the celebration on the Day of God Kupala to purify their Soul, they light large bonfires, and everyone who wants to jump over these bonfires, because Fire burns all negativity and purifies the aura and Soul of a person.

Third Purification (Purification of the Spirit)

Each Community Old Believer present at the celebration on the Day of God Kupala, as well as those who wish, can purify and strengthen their Spirit. To do this, a Fiery Circle is created from the burning coals of a large fire, along which the Old Believers-Ynglings from various Tribal, Slavic and Aryan Communities walk barefoot. Those wishing, who for the first time decided to walk on the coals in order to purify and strengthen their Spirit, the Community members lead by the hand through the Fiery Circle.

This holiday is inextricably linked with another event of antiquity. In ancient times, God Perun freed his sisters from captivity in the Caucasus and sent them to purify themselves in the waters of the Sacred Iriy (Irtysh) and in the Sour Cream Clean Lake (Zaisan Island). This event is also narrated in the fifth ball of Songs of the Gamayun Bird.

Due to the fact that Kupala is the Patron God of the Heavenly Hall of the Horse in the Svarog Circle, on this day it is customary to bathe horses, braid colorful ribbons into their manes and decorate them with wildflowers.

Khors - the God of the Sun among the Slavs, the God of the solar disk, was widely revered in all Slavic lands. The tribal memory transferred this god to such kind words as a good round dance - the oldest sacred dance, holding hands and leading him, our ancestors thereby welcomed Khors, merging with him with common energy and becoming a particle of God.
Until now, among many Slavic peoples, the solar disk is denoted by the word "horo".
And the ancient sanctuaries of Khors and other Gods were called mansions, hence the word Temple.

Yarilo - Slavic god of fertility, spring, an ardent god of awakening nature and the spring Sun, inspiration and youth, natural strength, love delight and fighting rage. He is the very embodiment of the solar jari - a riot of vitality that raises ears of corn filled with power to the sky. It is embodied in a person as a strong will to continue his Family and the will to live in general.

Lel - love passion, the god of love and marriages. He was portrayed as a handsome and cheerful fair-haired shepherd boy. Who, playing a gentle melody of love on his magic pipe, awakens passion in the hearts of Slavic boys and girls!
We still have the Tribal memory of this beautiful and cheerful god of love, innocent passion, this is the word that we use to this day - “cherish”, that is, love, undead ...
In some Slavic languages, the Stork, which was considered the sacred bird of Lel, is called - Lelka!

StriBog - the old God, the grandfather of the winds The deity of the air, the sky. This is the old and mighty God, whose dominion extends in the space between Heaven and Earth. Stribog controls elemental forces: lightning, winds, storms, whirlwinds and hurricanes. They turned to him if they wanted to influence the weather. Stribog was revered by the ancients as the destroyer of all kinds of evil intentions and atrocities. Mentioned in "The Tale of Igor's Campaign" "Behold the winds, Stribozh's grandchildren, blow from the sea with arrows on Igor's brave regiments"

Chur - God is the patron, protector of native lands, borders, protects the hearth of the home. He protects the ancestral possessions from unclean forces Since ancient times, a conspiracy has been preserved from evil spirits and all sorts of troubles, which we still use, saying “Chur, me” or “Chur, on your tongue” to protect yourself from an unkind word.
His name goes back to ancient times, when the Great Deified Ancestor was called Chura, Ancestor.

Chernobog is the dark hypostasis of the supreme Slavic Deity of the Family, Chernobog is the lord of Navi, Darkness and the Pekelny kingdom.
Embodies the universal forces of destruction and change for subsequent rebirth at a new level.

Marena - in Slavic mythology, the goddess of death, responsible with the seasonal rituals of dying and resurrection of nature, as well as with the rituals of causing rain. In the spring rituals of the Slavs, Madder was called a straw effigy - the embodiment of death (mora) and winter, which was drowned, burned during the celebration of the ancient holiday of Shrovetide at the time of the Spring Equinox, which was intended to ensure the harvest. Marena can be asked to destroy all the bad and evil that you have accumulated.

Triglav is the unity of the three main essences-hypostases of the gods and the embodiment of the ancient Slavic vision of the universal world - these three worlds are Yav, Nav, Rule. - Svarog (Right), Perun (Yav) and Veles (Nav). This is the deity of the trinity of the way of the world, which reflects the very essence of our world order.

GOD SEMARGL (Fire god)- The Highest God, the keeper of the Eternally Living Fire and the guardian of the exact observance of all the Fiery Rites and Fiery Purifications.

Semargl accepts Fiery Gifts, Trebs and bloodless Sacrifices at ancient Slavic and Aryan holidays, especially on Krasnogor, on the Day of God Kupala and on the Supreme Day of God Perun, being an intermediary between people and all the Heavenly Gods.

The Fire God Semargl is the Patron God of the Hall of the Heavenly Serpent in the Svarog Circle.

The Fire God gladly blesses all people from the Clans of the Great Race, who, with a pure Soul and Spirit, observe all the Heavenly Laws and the Many-Wise Commandments of the Light Gods and Ancestors.

Semargl is also called upon in the treatment of sick animals and people, in order to save the sick from various ailments and diseases. When a person's temperature rose, they said that the Fire God settled in the Soul of the sick person. For Semargl, like a Fire Dog, fiercely fights against ailments and diseases, which, like enemies, have made their way into the body or Soul of the sick person. Therefore, it is considered unacceptable to bring down the patient's elevated temperature. The best place for cleansing from ailments is considered to be a bath.

GOD KOLYADA - the Supreme God, who controls the Great Changes in the life of the Clans of the Great Race and the descendants of the Heavenly Clan.

In ancient times, the Supreme God Kolyada granted many Clans who moved to the western lands a system for calculating seasonal time for field work - the Calendar (Kolyada Dar), as well as his Wise Vedas, leads and instructions.

Kolyada is the Patron God of military people and Priests. Kolyada was often depicted with a sword in his hand, and the blade of the sword was pointed down.

The sword, pointing down, in ancient times meant the preservation of the Wisdom of the Gods and Ancestors, as well as the unshakable adherence to the Heavenly Laws, as established by God Svarog for all the Halls of the Svarog Circle.

The holiday in honor of God Kolyada falls on the day of the winter solstice, this holiday is also called Menari, i.e. Day of Change. On a holiday, groups of men dressed in the skins of various animals (mummers) walked around the yards, who were called the squads of Kolyada. They sang hymns glorifying Kolyada and arranged special round dances around sick people in order to heal them.

And finally, a little about Domovoy:
In Russia, the brownie is directly called the owner, hostess. In fact, the brownie is the ideal of the owner, as the Russian person understands him: he sees every little thing, tirelessly busies himself and makes sure that everything is in order and ready - here he helps the worker, there he corrects his mistake.
If he likes housing, then he serves the household and their elder, looks after the whole house and yard "more than the master's eye", looks after family interests and takes care of the property "more than a caring peasant."
The brownie only cares about his relatives, his house, his yard, and that is why they call him a brownie, these names indicate the space within which his power is honored and gifts and gifts are brought to him.

Before the trip to Arkaim, we held a lesson in a group, where we tried to get to know our Slavic Gods at least in general terms. For me, it was most interesting to understand this hierarchical ladder and understand who is who and who belongs to whom ...)) Now we know why Monday is a “hard day”, and it rains on Thursdays ...))

Genus– is the main deity in the Slavic Pantheon. Creator of everything, primary spirit, Pervobog, Prabog. Rod is also called the Supreme God or the Most High and Belbog, the White God, Sventovit. Sventovit can be translated as the Knight of Light, in contrast to Temnovit - the Dark Knight or Chernobog, which is the opposite of Belbog.

All other Gods originated from this Primal Godhead, obey it and are the more powerful, the closer they are to their Forefather.

Rod or Sventovid had many sons and daughters who are also the Highest Gods

Other Gods obey only him and fulfill all the requirements unquestioningly. Even after the adoption of Christianity, the Slavs continued to hold festivities and feasts on September 8 in honor of the God of Gods. The next day, September 9, they celebrate the day of Rozhanitsa - the daughters of the Family. Another holiday of the Family and Rozhanits is celebrated on September 25.
Chernobog – Black God, Chernobozh, Temnovit (Dark Knight). The complete opposite of the bright god Rod. The owner of the world of the dark Navi, Hell, the underworld. The sons and daughters of Chernobog are Viy, Volkh, Usynya, Dubynya. In all legends, songs and tales, it appears as a kind of black entity, the enemy of the light gods and the ruler of all the armies of the evil underworld, the underworld, hell, the hellish world. In addition, Chernobog is called the Black Snake and all his sons, daughters, as well as descendants are called Zmeevich or Zmievich. So Viy is called ViemZmievich. It is believed that after the Christianization of Russia, the image of Chernobog passed to St. Kasyan, who is the cause of various disasters.

The day of Chernobog is traditionally considered Monday, which was also called villain, sinister. On this day, it is not recommended to start any new business. In ancient Russia, Monday was the day of public reprisal, punishment or execution for any crime. The symbol of Chernobog is the skull of an animal or a person. The black horse, kite, walnut and beech, the number one (1) and the stake, the planet Saturn are also symbols of this God Navi.

The world has always been divided, is being divided and will be divided into black and white, good and evil. These forces must always exist and maintain themselves in harmony, so that Chernobog is an integral part of the world, one of those laws without which existence is impossible. Belbog and Chernobog are inextricably linked forever.

The holiday of Chernobog-Temnovit is traditionally celebrated on February 29. At midnight from February 29 to March 1, chicken eggs are broken. According to the beliefs of the Slavs, this is the only day of the year when Chernobog is mortal. His death is in the egg, and only by crushing or breaking it could the dark God be defeated.

Svarog- one of the highest gods of the Slavic-pagan pantheon. Svarog is revered as the god of heaven and the creator of the Earth. Svarog is also considered the patron saint of warriors and weapons. He is a blacksmith god who taught people to forge metal products. Any forge in itself is the temple of Svarog, and the anvil and hammer are symbols of Svarog.

During the establishment of dual faith in Russia, the role of Svarog was taken over by Kuzma-Demyan. Kuzma and Demyan are Christian saints, healers, miracle workers, who, in folk beliefs, merged into one divine character, and took on many of the features of Svarog. This happened, most likely, due to the similarity of the name of one of the saints - Kuzma, very similar to the word "blacksmith". If we turn to dual faith, compare the Christian deities and their qualities borrowed from pagan gods, then we can draw such an analogy as: the supreme Christian god Jehovah (Yahweh), who corresponds to Rod and Svarog, and his son Jesus, who during the time of dual faith adopted himself the traits of the son of Svarog Dazhdbog - the god of the good.

The holiday of Svarog falls on November 14th. This day is known as Svarozhki. In the era of Christianity, Svarozhki began to be called the day of Kuzma and Demyan.

Perun- one of the most important Gods of the Slavs. The son of God Svarog, along with Dazhdbog is considered the eldest Svarozhich. Thunder god, patron of warriors. Perun, as the God of thunder and lightning, meant inhuman strength and power.

In honor of Perun, eternal fires were lit on temples. Eternal bonfires, which never went out, were made of oak logs - a tree that directly refers to Perun. oak groves and the forests also belonged to this God and were carefully guarded as sacred. When there was no rain for a long time, in such groves they called on Perun to send his fat herds (clouds) to people, which would give the earth water to drink, and with their arrows (lightning) they would defeat the enemy and evil spirits.

It is worth knowing that after Christianization, many Gods, consciously or unconsciously, by Christians or Slavs who did not want to forget their Gods, were transferred to the images of Christian saints. This fate did not spare Perun either. In a sense, people renamed their God and the image of Perun was transferred to Elijah the Prophet, who is also called Ilya Gromovnik.

Iris is considered the flower of Perun. The South Slavic peoples, Bulgarians and Serbs call this flower - Perunika or Bogisha. In the form of a six-petalled Iris, judging by the excavations, the sanctuaries of Perun were also made.

Perun's day is Thursday. There is also a saying “After the rain on Thursday”, which refers us to ancient beliefs.

Veles(Volos), Veles Svarozhich, Veles Korovich - is one of the most famous and most mysterious Deities of the pagan pantheon of the ancient Slavs. The son of Rod and the heavenly cow Zemun, brother of Svarog and Khors, husband of the Goddess Makosh. He is credited with the role of being responsible for people and the animal world as a whole. Some call him the cattle God, the patron of cattle, the animal nature of man, others argue that Veles is the God of poets and wealth, is the grandfather of the famous poet Boyan, his task is to meet souls after death and escort them to the world of the dead.

Since the cult of Veles was one of the main ones in ancient Russia, it is natural that he had his own temples and sanctuaries.

After the adoption of Christianity, the church needed to somehow quickly and painlessly assimilate pagan Rus with their saints. Suddenly, unexpectedly, many Christian saints began to acquire the features of purely Slavic pagan Gods, and the ancient Gods themselves began to be called evil spirits, demons and demons. So it happened with Veles. Veles was replaced by St. Blaise, who was also the patron saint of livestock. Some features of Veles were transferred to St. George. Veles was recognized as an evil ear, hence: Hairy, Hairy - hell. It is also worth saying that Nicholas the Wonderworker took over some of the features of Veles, who began to patronize wealth, trade, the underwater and underworld.

Holidays of God Veles: January 1-6 - Veles days, February 10, April 10 - Zimun Cow Day

Dazhdbog(Dazhbog, Svarozhich) - God of the Sun and God Giver among the Slavs. He is the son of God Svarog, that is, one of Svarozhich. His brothers are Perun, Stribog, Simargl, Troyan and others. Children of Dazhdbog - Ovsen, Kolyada, Maya Zlatogorka. Zhiva is considered the wife of this God, in addition, before Zhiva, Morana was considered his wife, parting with which at the same time symbolizes the end of winter. Dazhdbog, according to the ideas of the Slavs, opens the summer and closes the winter. Many, by the consonance of the name, believe that Dazhdbog somehow refers to the rain, but this is absolutely not the case. The first part of the name of God Dazhd or Dazh comes not from the word "rain", but from the words "give", "give". It is God who gives Sun God, Sunlight and, accordingly, the God of fertility.

In the Slavic holiday calendar, there are several dates that are dedicated to God the Giver. The main ones are considered to be March 18 - Dazhdbog Day and May 6 - Dazhdbog Day.

After the Christianization of Russia, the image of Dazhdbog in some of its features was transferred to Nicholas the Wonderworker (Nikolai Ugodnik). Both Nikolai and Dazhdbog are the bearers of gifts, patrons and helpers of those who suffer and pray for help.

Yarilo(Yarila, Yarovit) - pagan god of spring fertility. The very name "Yarilo", which has the root “yar” indicates the involvement of this God in fertility (spring, spring bread, spring bees, yarovik (young bull), yarovushka (young sheep)). Yarilo spreads spring light, excites strength in plants, and carnal love in animals. The name "Yarilo" means white, that is, white light that penetrates the world with the advent of spring and charges everything with life.

Yarilo is not only the God of fertility, spring and resurgent life, but also one of the faces of the Sun. Yarilo is spring sun. It is he who is greeted with the advent of Maslenitsa and seen off with the advent of the summer holiday of Kupala.

He was credited with the role of a deity who arouses love in people and is responsible for birth, the beginning of life. The new religion recognized Yarila and the holidays associated with it as outrageousness, bacchanalia and debauchery, which is fundamentally wrong, because behind all this there are only external images designed to create a special ritual game. The pagan Slavs themselves were a highly moral and cultured people who always honored moral and spiritual purity.

After the Christianization of Russia, some of the functions and image of Yarila were taken over by St. George, who is also called St. Yegoriy and St. Yuri. It was St. Yuri, in consonance with "Yur" and "Yar", who became the new Yarila in the understanding of the era of dual faith.

Symbol Yarila is a shield (shield is an ancient symbol of the sun).

Yarila Day falls on March 21-22 or the Spring Equinox. On this day, when they say goodbye to winter and burn the effigy of Marena, they greet Yarila. Then, on Kupala, they burn the effigy of Yarila and greet Kupala. Games in honor of Yarila in March were called Yaril, Yarilki, Yarilin games, Yarilin festivities.

Yarilo Veshny April 23 is celebrated. On this day, Yarilo unlocks or fertilizes the Earth.

Makosh(Makosh, Mokosha, Mokusha) - Slavic goddess. It occupies one of the most important and significant places in the pagan pantheon of the Slavs. It is worth saying that the idol of Makosh was among others on the Kiev temple, which was erected and then destroyed by Prince Vladimir. The fact that Makosh was awarded such an honor as an idol on the main princely temple speaks of her extraordinary significance in the beliefs and ideas of our ancestors. Among other idols, Makosh was the only female deity.

Makosh is the goddess of the earth and rain, harvest, spinning, weaving, the patroness of crafts, the patroness of women, the goddess of fate. The very name "Mokosh" or "Makosh" is associated with several versions of origin. One of the versions put forward by M. Vasmer, Mokosh comes from the word “get wet”, and in ancient times this goddess was directly associated with rain and harvest. Other researchers have suggested that Mokosh comes from the word mokos, which can be translated as "spinning". There are still beliefs that it is impossible to spin and do needlework on Friday, since this day is dedicated to Mokosh and the goddess can punish for such an offense. The name Makosh comes from the phrase "ma" - mother and "kosh" - lot. Such a phrase can be translated as - Mother of fate. In ancient times, "kosh" also meant a basket for grain, a barn, a corral for cattle, a cart for sheaves, and from this we can conclude that Makosh is the mother of the harvest. None of the names of the goddess is erroneous, that is, you can call her both Makosh and Mokosh.

Like a spinner who spins divine threads, Makosh is also goddess of fate. According to the beliefs of the pagan Slavs, it is she who is engaged in spinning the threads of life (pokuta, pokutnye threads). The assistants of this goddess are Share and Nedolya (Srecha and Nesrecha).

It is worth noting the irrefutable fact that after Christianization, the image of Mokosh was transferred to a Christian saint Paraskeva Friday or ParaskevaPnyanikh. Mokosh's day has always been considered Friday, which is why Paraskeva is also called Friday; Pnyanikha or Lyanikha - spinning flax, also refers to the image of Mokosh. Paraskeva, translated from Greek, means “Friday”.

Since Makosh is associated with the moon, the moonstone, rock crystal, is considered the stone-amulet of this goddess. Mokosh's metal is silver. The animal is a cat.

Makosh, together with women in labor Lada and Lelei, are the main patron goddesses of the Babi porridge holiday, which is traditionally celebrated on January 8th.

Goddess Lada is one of the most important goddesses in pagan pantheon. She is the daughter of Rod (sometimes considered the female form of Rod) and Duck. The duck is the mother of all mythological birds, and Lada is often depicted as a white Swan. She is also the mother of Zhiva, Lelya, Lelya and Morana. Therefore, she is the eldest Women in labor who were the mothers of the gods. In Slavic mythology, she is called the goddess of love, spring and beauty, the patroness of marriage. From her name went such words as: fret (family fret), okay, okay, get along. In the old days, loved ones called each other Lado and Ladushka. In addition, frets - an engagement, got along - a matchmaker, Ladkanya - a wedding song. All this is understood as a harmonious arrangement of the world and human life. Among other things, Lada meets the souls of the dead and accompanies them.

The sacred animal of this Slavic light goddess of childbirth is the white Swan. He is her embodiment and her symbol of purity and fidelity. Also, its symbol from the world of flora is Birch. In winter, Lada is portrayed as a blonde in a light dress, and starting from spring, a golden-haired girl with a wreath of flowers on her head.

Flowers were the main sacrifice to Lada. Thus, we can assume that the tradition of giving flowers to beloved girls came from here.

The holiday dedicated to this goddess is called Ladodenie and is celebrated by pagan Slavs on March 30.

Alive, Zhivana is the great Slavic goddess of childbirth. She is the daughter of Lada and the sister of Lelya, Lelya and Morana. Zhiva's husband is Dazhd-God. The son is Peklenets, the owner of the underground hell. Alive is the personification of spring, love, youth, beauty, prosperity of nature. The cuckoo is considered to be the embodiment of Alive. According to legend, in the spring, the cuckoo flies to earth from Iriy (pagan paradise) and counts the hours of birth, life and death. The pagan sorcerers guessed by the cuckoo's call not only how long they had left to live, but also many other important things.

Zhivana is considered a life-giving goddess. She resurrects dead nature in the spring and returns joy to people. Makes living alive. Many of the Slavic words originated precisely from the name of the goddess Zhiva - life, housing, life, animal, stomach, healing, etc. She is depicted as a young girl with fruits in her hands. It is worth mentioning that the opposition to Zhiva was her sister Mara or Morana, who was the goddess of winter and death.

Zhiva's holiday is considered May 1 - Zhivin Day. Also on March 25, the Spring Festival is celebrated - according to legend, the gates of Svarga open on this day and Zhiva descends to the ground, bringing spring with him.

Morana (Madder, Morena, Mara, Morzhana, Bony, Dark Mother of God, Black Mother) – goddess of winter, death, the queen of the night, the mighty and formidable deity of the Slavs. Mara is the daughter of the goddess Lada and Svarog (Marena Svarogovna), the sister of Zhiva, Lelya and Lelya. Her husband is Koschey, and her children are Bogumir, Zhelya and Karina. Judging by other legends, fairy tales, epics, Dazhdbog was also Mary's husband. Morana is the very embodiment of impure forces. She is in charge of Navi and hell. According to legends, he wanders in the snow and sometimes visits reality to do dirty deeds. In addition, every morning she lies in wait for the sun to destroy him, but every time she retreats before his power. Every spring, he fights with the forces of light (Yarilo, Zhiva), in order to prolong winter on earth as long as possible. But, in the end, she, being defeated, is burned on a symbolic fire, which we can now see at Shrove Tuesday. The name Morana gave rise to such words as: pestilence, haze, darkness, haze, fool, death, etc. Probably in ancient times this goddess was called the double name Mara-Marena;

The symbols of the goddess Morana are the Black Moon, broken skulls, sickle, black swan, vulture, raven. With the help of a sickle, she cuts the threads of life, as a result of which a person dies. Her sacred things are goat, juniper, aspen, spruce and pine. Her possessions are located beyond the Currant River and in order to reach them you need to cross the Kalinov Bridge, which connects Yav and Nav.

Mary is Dead Water, that is, the opposite of life-giving light or Solar Yari. However, without Mary, as well as without Chernobog, life on earth would be impossible, and she is also involved in maintaining balance. Taking souls from Reveal, Mara does a great job and gives the soul a new existence. Morzhana is the goddess of death and disease in the world of JAV and the goddess of eternal youth in the world of NAVI.

The Slavic goddess of death Morana is depicted in different ways. This may be a girl with black hair that is scattered over her shoulders, in a velvet dress embroidered with jewels. Sometimes she is depicted as a gray-haired old woman, who is dressed in black beggarly robes. Such different images are associated with the change of seasons. In late autumn or early winter, when the dark goddess comes into the world and calls winter with her, she is still young and full of strength, but at Shrove Tuesday (komoeditsy) she is already old and helpless, and gives way to the young Yarila, who brings spring into the world . In her hands, a sickle or a scythe is often depicted. Marena Day is traditionally celebrated on March 1st.

Judging by reliable sources, many historians and researchers believe that the temple of Morana was located on the site of the modern location of the Ostankino tower.

Semargl(Simargl, Simargl, Semargl) - pagan deity , Firebog, Messenger of the Gods, guardian of crops. Many scientists agree that Semargl looks like a winged dog. She was depicted with a fiery breath - a flame that escapes from her mouth. As a fiery god, Semargl refers to the Svarozhichs. In this sense, he is often compared to the Hindu Agni, the god of fire. Also, the Slavic Semargl is compared with the Iranian Simurgh (fabulous bird), which is a messenger between the heavenly and earthly worlds, between people and Gods.

Semargl here can act as a guardian of seeds, sprouts and shoots, that is, a guardian of plants, also a guardian of domesticated plants, fruit trees, field crops, vegetables, fruits, berries, mushrooms, and so on.

Researcher Boris Rybakov, among other things, points out that over time the name Simargl changed and he began to be called Twisted. This deity was revered and glorified during the holidays of Rusalia that have survived to this day, which are celebrated in June just before Kupala. In ancient times, mermaids were understood not as water maidens, but as spirits, cloud maidens, half-maidens, half-birds, who protect crops, patronize fertility, and also help people. In pagan times, the same mermaids were called Beregini, that is, guardians. In this regard, Pereplut-Simargl turns out to be closely connected with the shoreline mermaids. Subsequently, this led to a slight misconception, as a result of which some researchers began to take Pereplut for a merman, since he is associated with mermaids, who began to be mistaken for water maidens.

God Lizard(Yusha, Yasha, Yesha, Yazhe, Yaze, Yusha-serpent,) - one of the gods of the ancient pagan Slavs, who manages the underworld and underwater world. The very appearance of the god Lizard was presented to the Slavs in different ways - a huge snake, a dragon, a lizard with two heads, a crocodile. It is he who, in the form of dragons and snakes, is depicted on many household items, architectural elements, clothing items, and amulets.

The lizard symbolizes lower world, underground, according to the Slavic tradition, which is the world of ancestors. The lizard also entered folklore in the form of a dragon with several heads.

Not only fairy tales or myths, but also some ancient sources claim that a certain crocodile or corcodile lived in the waters of the river and lake, to which they made sacrifices. Even after the baptism of Russia, at each departure of a ship, boat or other sailing vessel, sailors always threw a few coins to the sea king Lizard, hoping for his favor for their journey. A large number of myths and legends are associated with beliefs in dragons or giant snakes. Moreover, these beliefs exist not only in Slavic paganism, but also in the beliefs of many other nations. For example, one of the most ancient mythological snakes is considered Ouroboros, which swallows its own tail, and which existed in almost all cultures of the world - Egypt, Greece, India, China, Scandinavia, the Aztecs and so on. The lizard, also known as the Dragon, in many cultures has the special ability to spew fire from its mouth. The complexity of this character of the Slavic pantheon is truly grandiose. Perhaps it will be possible to understand it only in the future. For example, why was the prototype of the Lizard called the Serpent Gorynych? From the fact that the Serpent lived in the mountain (mountains)? Or from the fact that the Serpent with his ability caused burning (flame)? Why do some myths and fairy tales show the Serpent flying across the sky, like black clouds, and not at all under water, where, according to tradition, the Lizard's habitat was represented? Perhaps in this way information about the diversity of this God came to us, who could live both under water and rise into the sky, who could be the owner of the underworld, like Hades, and who could calmly rise to the surface.

Lizards and snakes are the guardians of underground riches. There were rituals and special magical actions, during which, on a certain day, with certain magic spells, people went into the forest to look for snakes or lizards that could indicate to them the location of the treasure. Remember the lizard in Bazhov's fairy tale "The Mistress of the Copper Mountain", which actually turned out to be the real ruler of the mountain, which is the same as the mistress of the underworld.

Father Frost found in the most ancient Slavic tales, as the omnipotent God of Winter, Frost. In the same works, he is given the name Morozko. During the struggle of Christianity with paganism, the Slavic Gods, Deities, Light Beings, etc. demonized, presented as demons and devils. Figure Morozko this fight is no exception. Over time, even ordinary people stopped remembering who he really was. Now, in the understanding of people, the God of Frost is an evil Deity that hates every person and is ready to freeze him to death. Christians began to assure people that Morozko was stealing children and collecting human sacrifices. But, if until the 19th-20th centuries people still remembered Morozko, then later, when they began to look with envy to the West and actively adopt its traditions, God Frost finally disappeared in the memory of people.

Santa Claus- this is not a mythical, not an epic character, not a God and not a Spirit. Santa Claus is a prototype of a real person. He was the Christian Saint Nicholas of Myra (Santa - Saint, Claus - Nicholas). Nicholas was born in Patara in Turkey, received a church education and did good deeds. According to the legends, he tossed gold coins through pipes into the houses of poor girls. Most likely, he really was a good person and helped others, but this saint from sunny Turkey (!), where it is always summer, has nothing to do with our God, especially the God of Winter and cold.

However, the statement that only children believe in Santa Claus is absurd. Santa Claus, Morozko is one of the Slavic Gods, and not to believe in him means not to believe in Rod, Veles, Svarog, Perun, Makosh and many other Light Gods. Like other Gods, Morozko is not a fairy-tale character that was invented for the joy of children, but a real Deity for anyone who honors the Faith of the Ancestors. In ancient Russia, the God of Winter and Frost was also known under other names: Zimnik, Studenets, Grandfather Treskun and Korochun (Karachun). Korochun is an ancient god who commands frost.

Alas! This is a brief and incomplete account of the Slavic Gods. But do you always have to start somewhere?

Paganism is a traditional worldview based on the vast life experience of the ancient Slavs. With its help, people mastered the world around them and knew themselves. The pantheon of Slavic gods is huge and many of them have been forgotten over time.

Pagan gods of the ancient Slavs

The exact number of Slavic deities cannot be determined. This is due to the fact that one god had several names that were equally common. One can distinguish the main pantheon of pagan gods, who occupied an important part of people's lives. Each representative had the power to control the impulses of natural phenomena, but only in his element. The Slavs used different totems and idols, which were a kind of transmitting link that allowed them to communicate with the Higher powers.

The main pagan god of the Slavs

The deity, which is identified with Zeus and Jupiter, and which occupies a leading position in the pantheon of the Eastern Slavs, is Perun. He was also the patron of thunder, lightning and military prowess. This is the youngest son of Lada and Svarog. Perun was considered the patron of the prince and the princely squad and was associated with the invincible power of Light. The day when the Slavs held a huge celebration was considered June 20.

Outwardly, he was represented by a tall, stately warrior who had blond hair and blue eyes. He wore golden armor and a loose red cloak. He appeared on a powerful horse, holding a one-pound club in his hands, which was presented to him by Svarog. The symbol of this pagan god is an ax, which is called the Ax of Perun, and also the rune Strength. An idol is a powerful oak pillar, on which a conditional face and a divine symbol were carved.

pagan god of love

Lel, who is the son of Lada, was responsible for the warm love feelings of the ancient Slavs. It symbolizes beauty and love. They represented him as a baby with wings and golden hair, which is similar to the appearance of Cupid, familiar to many. The Slavic god Lel symbolizes passion, hot and ardent love, therefore he was often represented armed with sparks, which he threw from his hands, kindling fiery love feelings in people.

The bird that symbolized Lelya is a stork, as a result of which another name appeared - “leleka”. The celebration of this god fell on the night of Ivan Kupala. In some legends, the pagan god of love was represented as a shepherd with blond hair. The patronage of Lelya brings people good luck in love, helping to find a soul mate in order to become happier.

pagan god of the sun

The ancient Slavs considered the sun to be the main force that gives life on earth, so there were three main patrons: Yarilo, Dazhdbog and Khors. The first pagan gods are responsible for the spring and summer sun, and the last - for the winter. He was represented as a middle-aged man who had rosy cheeks. Although he was often depicted smiling, he was sad because he could not protect people from the winter frosts.

The god of the Slavs Khors possessed the powers to control nature, so he can calm a blizzard and a snowstorm. It can raise and lower the temperature. This deity was also considered the patron saint of winter crops, so he was in special honor among people whose activities are connected with the earth. This deity has a dark incarnation - Black Horse, who was created by Navi and he was responsible for severe frosts and snowstorms. The god of the winter sun was worshiped on September 22.

pagan god of fertility

The deity of spring fertility among the ancient Slavs is Yarilo, who is the patron saint of the sun. He is the younger brother of Khors and Dazhdbog. Yarilo was considered the god of passion, childbearing and the flowering of human strength and nature. Among others, he stands out for his sincerity, purity and brightness of character. was presented as a young and stately guy with beautiful blue eyes. In many paintings, the deity was depicted to the waist without clothes and with blond hair.

Like many other pagan gods, Yarilo had his own attributes, so in his right hand he has a stuffed human head, and in the other - ears of rye. The head of this deity was decorated with a wreath of spring wildflowers. Yaril's symbol is a five-pointed star with equal sides and the Oud rune. The ancient Slavs celebrated the day of this god on March 21, when the first month of the pagan year began.

pagan god of fire

Svarog had several sons, and one of them was Svarozhich, who was considered a more mundane deity, that is, the material incarnation of his father. The ancient Slavs worshiped him as the personification of earthly fire. Even the god Svarozhich was considered an idol that helps to secure good luck in the war. Some sources contain information according to which this deity was also called Radogost. Studies have shown that Svarozhich is not an important member of the pagan pantheon.

pagan sky god

Chief among the revered deities is Svarog, who has many deeds, for which the Slavs loved and respected him. He was the patron of the sky, as well as the creator of the earth. Some scientists believe that the first statement is incorrect, since the main power of Svarog is fire and a blacksmith's hammer. The most important act is the creation of other gods. The Slavs perceived Svarog as the personification of a wise warrior-father who protects his family.

God worked with his own hands, and not with the help of magic or thought, so he was often considered the personification of labor. The symbol of this deity is Svarogov Square with eight rays. The Slavic god Svarog was portrayed as an old man with a gray head, but at the same time he was a strong and invincible hero who defended his family. In his hands he holds a huge hammer. According to one of the legends, this deity had four faces that looked in all directions of the horizon, which only emphasized its importance.

pagan god of death

In paganism, one deity had several abilities at once, which might not even be related to each other. Semargl is the god of death, original fire and fertility. According to one of the legends, he is the eldest son of Svarog, who appeared after the blow of the heavenly hammer. It was believed that the god of the Slavs Semargl many times helped his brothers in the fight against dark forces. He was the messenger of the gods and had the ability to concentrate the forces of other inhabitants of the pantheon.

It is believed that Semargl has the ability to change his appearance, so he appeared before people in the form of a warrior who was surrounded by tongues of the Iry flame, but more often he chose for himself the appearance of a large dog with wings that left a fiery trail behind him. Some researchers believe that Semargl embodies seven supreme gods at once, so the idols dedicated to him have seven conditional "faces". April 14 was considered the day of this deity.

pagan wind god

The ancient Slavs each element had its own patron, and the wind controlled by Stribog was no exception. It was believed that he had power over everything connected with the air, for example, birds, arrows, and so on. Stribog was revered not only by farmers, who expected rain clouds from him, but also by sailors, who were counting on a successful voyage. People thought he had a tough temper. The Slavic god Stribog was portrayed as a grandfather with a large beard, but at the same time he was not decrepit. In his hands he had a golden bow, and his clothes were azure as the sky. Its symbol is the Stribog rune.

pagan god of wealth

The deity who was responsible for fertility and wealth is Veles. He was considered a sage, patron of the arts and a werewolf god. He was the only representative of the Slavic pantheon who knew equally both light and dark forces. The Slavic god Veles possessed secret knowledge, which gave him the ability to control the elements and change the laws of the universe. He helped people for a long time, teaching them various crafts.

Veles was also considered the patron of good luck and travel. He was represented as a strong man with a long beard, and he was dressed in a travel cloak. In his hands was a magical staff that looked like a tree branch. As a werewolf, Veles could turn into a bear, so the imprint of this animal has long been considered the seal of a deity. The symbol of this deity is a star with six ends and the rune Wind.

Pagan goddess of love

The main goddess of family relationships, fertility and love Lada. She was considered the mother of all the months of the year. Lada is the wife of Svarog. They represented her as a young and beautiful woman with blond hair. Her head was decorated with a wreath of roses. The Slavic goddess Lada has the power that can give the most important thing - life. People came to her with various requests. This goddess was designated by a circle, inside of which there is a triangle. I celebrate Lada's day on September 22.

Pagan goddess of fertility

Makosh is considered the patroness of the family hearth and a good harvest. She was most popular among women, who considered her the main goddess of family happiness and motherhood. As the patroness of housewives, she was the patroness of traditional women's activities. The ancient Slavs believed that in the hands of Makosh were the threads of the life of all people on earth, so she can make any changes in the world at any moment. People turned to her to improve their own lives.

The Slavic goddess Makosh was portrayed as a beautiful aged woman and sometimes had horns on her head. In her hands she often held a cornucopia or spun. Makosh was considered the patroness of springs, so gifts were brought to her to water sources. Her idols were placed near each well. Many pagan gods had their messengers, and Mokosh also had them: spiders, bees and ants, hence the belief arose that insects should not be killed, since this is a failure.

In Slavic culture, the pantheon was divided into functional and solar gods, and the mighty Svarog (sometimes called Rod) ruled all of them. The category of functional deities included Perun, Veles, Stribog and Semargl, each of which was the patron of a certain category of the population or the lord of a certain force. The solar gods, as a rule, were associated with the seasons, and there were four of them - Dazhbog, Khors, Yarilo and the ruler himself - Svarog.

Solar gods of ancient Russia

Each of the solar ancient gods of Russia had power during a certain time of the year. Between the winter and spring solstice (that is, from December 22 to March 21), the god Khors dominated. Then came the time of the reign of the god Yarilo - until the summer solstice, June 22. Next came the time of Dazhdbog, and it lasted until September 23 - the autumn solstice. Reading was accepted in the remaining period of the year, until December 22.

Functional pagan gods of ancient Russia

One of the most famous functional gods of the Slavs up to the present day remains Perun - the lord of lightning and the patron of warriors, the protector. No less famous is Veles, whose name is often used to name modern companies - he was the patron of trade, wisdom, magic and books, and was also the ruler of the world of the dead. Despite the fact that Veles ruled the dead, Semargl was the god of death. The last, fourth functional god is Stribog, the patron of the wind.

Great gods of ancient Russia

Let's take a closer look at the individual, most famous gods of ancient Russia and the Slavs in general.

Starting the description of the Slavic pantheon, it is impossible not to mention Svarog - one of the main gods, the patron of fire and heat. He is a heavenly deity who personifies the mother of all living things. In ancient times, he was considered a deity with a feminine principle, later - with a masculine one.

It is interesting that in Slavic culture, heavenly deities are associated precisely with fire. It is believed that it was Svarog who opened the art of flame control to people - he taught how to process metal, creating forged products and much more. On the other hand, Svarog provided people with laws and knowledge, after which he considered his mission completed and ceded the reins of government to his sons, Dazhdbog and Khors.

The god Khors was especially revered, who, according to legend, is born on December 22 in the form of a boy-sun, which completes the course of the old sun and opens the new year. This is a deity with a masculine principle, which symbolized the desire of youth for knowledge and growth, overcoming difficulties and finding new solutions. Khors was greeted with carols, kolovrat, masquerade with the masks of totem animals. It was customary to burn a wheel on the mountain to help the sun shine brighter, and all this was accompanied by cheerful folk festivals.

Another famous god is Yarilo, symbolizing the awakening of nature, conception, new life. He seemed to people a brave groom who could give a good harvest and strong children.

Dazhdbog, one of the deities most beloved by the people, personifies the power of the sun, its warmth, as well as the higher laws of the creation of the world. Turning to him, people expected the fulfillment of dreams, getting rid of diseases and other earthly blessings. It was believed that this deity gives people both the sun and rain.

One of the warlike, but respected gods was Perun - he commanded lightning and thunder, and it was at his command that the clouds could hide from heaven. He was considered one of the world-creating deities, because it was his power that fed the plants and awakened life. In addition, Perun was revered in turbulent times, since he was the patron saint of warriors, the prince and the squad.

The gods and goddesses of ancient Russia have not been studied as fully as the Greek or Roman ones, but turning to the roots of Slavic culture, you can discover many interesting facts.