Sheer nonsense: Ukrainian Orthodox priest refutes apple ban before Spas

Father Oleksii Filiuk of the OCU offers a clarification

According to 24 канал — Lifestyle: In Slavic Christian tradition, the August feast known as Yablochnyi Spas (Apple Savior) is associated with the blessing of newly harvested fruit. In a TikTok video, Father Oleksii Filiuk, a priest of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, said that church rules do not require waiting until that blessing to eat apples or any other fruit. The same applies to pears, grapes, peaches, and other crops. Filiuk noted that the practice of blessing fruit originates from ancient Israel, where people brought their first harvest as a sign of gratitude to God.

The priest also took aim at a persistent folk belief: if a mother who has lost a child eats an apple before the Transfiguration, her baby will go without heavenly treats. Filiuk called that idea “absolute nonsense.” He urged people not to put trust in such superstitions and advised eating ripe apples from the garden as soon as they are ready.

The deeper meaning behind the fruit blessing

Blessing apples on the feast of the Transfiguration is meant as an expression of thankfulness, not as a strict obligation. Earlier, 24 Kanal explored the Dormition fast and Yablochnyi Spas, emphasizing the importance of understanding traditions in the context of modern life.

This clarification from the priest may be important for many believers who follow customs related to eating fruit during holidays. Realizing that the blessing is not mandatory could ease stress and anxiety among those who observe religious practices but might not be able to perform them. It also underscores the value of approaching folk beliefs critically and noticing their influence on everyday choices.

As the season of harvest approaches, many traditions intertwine with faith, highlighting the significance of gratitude in various forms. For instance, the upcoming celebration of blessing Makoviichyk with 17 plants on August 1 also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring the bounty of nature. Understanding these rituals can enrich one's appreciation of cultural practices during this time.