What is allowed and what is not allowed on December 4, 2024
On December 4, 2024, a major religious holiday is celebrated, known as the Entrance (Entry) into the Temple of the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary.
On this day, the event is commemorated in church traditions about the first visit of the little Virgin Mary to the Jerusalem Temple to be dedicated to God. We recall that Mary’s parents, Joachim and Anna, were childless for many years and made a vow to dedicate their child to God. Mary was born in Nazareth and lived there with her parents until she was three years old. However, when she grew up, Joachim and Anna fulfilled their vow and, gathering relatives, with hymns and lit candles, took the girl to the Jerusalem Temple. They traveled for three days with brief rest stops. When the solemn procession reached its destination, they were met by a group of priests led by the archpriest Zechariah, who would later become the father of John the Baptist. The girl was placed on the first of the 15 steps leading to the temple, symbolizing the 15 psalms. After that, Mary climbed them on her own. Zechariah, at divine guidance, introduced the little girl into the Holy of Holies, where, from all people, only the High Priest was allowed to enter once a year, and there he pointed out the place for prayer.
Only one girl, Mary, from all the women, has been allowed to enter the inner altar for prayer since that time.
What should you do on December 4, 2024?
On the evening before, it is recommended to attend the festive service.
On this day, it is customary to bring young children for their first confession and communion.
In the Orthodox tradition, this happens when the child reaches the age of 7.
It is customary to give gifts to godchildren.
A great day for business and shopping.
A good day to conduct a technical inspection of your personal vehicle.
Take time for quiet reflection and prayer.
What should you not do on December 4, 2024?
It is not allowed to engage in heavy physical labor.
It is not allowed to clean.
It is not allowed to rush or hurry.
It is not allowed to argue or quarrel.
It is not allowed to sew, embroider, or knit.
It is not allowed to drink alcohol.
It is not allowed to lend money.