April 26: Thomas the Apostle, Myrrh-Bearing Women, and the prohibition of quarrels

      On April 26, 2026, the third Sunday after Easter, Orthodox Christians commemorate the holy myrrh-bearing women. This date is popularly known as the Day of Thomas the Myrrh-Bearer, named after the blooming forest herb. We discuss the traditions, prohibitions, and weather signs of this day, as well as unusual holidays around the world.

      Orthodox Holiday

      April 26, 2026, is the third Sunday after Easter, known as the Sunday of the Holy Myrrh-Bearing Women. On this day, the Church remembers the women who were the first to come to the tomb of the Risen Christ. Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Salome, Joanna, Martha and Mary, Susanna, and others—they did not abandon their Teacher even after the crucifixion and became the first witnesses of the Resurrection. This holiday was called "Orthodox Women's Day" in Russia. The holy myrrh-bearing women exemplified fidelity, love, and selfless service. In their honor, solemn services are held in churches, and after the liturgy, it is customary to congratulate all women. Additionally, on April 26, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of the martyr Thomas the Egyptian (Alexandrian), who lived in the 5th century. This saint preserved her marital fidelity and chastity at the cost of her own life. Since then, she has been prayed to for the preservation of family, protection from sinful temptations, and help in marital fidelity.

      Traditions of the Day

      The name "Myrrh-Bearer" was given to the day because by the end of April, the myrrh herb—valued for its healing properties in Russia—began to bloom. The eldest woman in the family would go to collect it. To avoid encountering a bear in the forest, she would wear a fur coat with the fur side out—believing that this way the animal would not recognize her as a woman.

      From myrrh, a healing tea for coughs was brewed, and it was added to soups and salads. On this day, it was also customary to gather the first shoots of sorrel for green borscht. The Day of Thomas the Myrrh-Bearer was considered a good day to start gardening work. Our ancestors sowed carrots, beets, onions, cucumbers, and potatoes, believing that what was planted on this day would yield a rich harvest.

      On the Day of the Myrrh-Bearing Women, women rested from heavy work—all household chores fell to the men. It was customary to gather together, bake round buns, and treat relatives and neighbors with them. Unmarried girls were seated at the table between happy married women—believing that this would help them find a suitor. Husbands would give their wives sweets—gingerbread or lollipops—to ensure peace and understanding in the family.

      What Not to Do

      This day is associated with many strict prohibitions that our ancestors observed.

      Men should not offend or insult women, nor contradict their wives and daughters. It was believed that Saint Thomas would punish the offender.

      Wearing black clothing is forbidden—it attracts evil spirits and harms health.

      One should not embark on a long journey, business trip, or hike. The path will be full of obstacles and disappointments.

      It is prohibited to get married, make proposals, or go on dates. Relationships started on this day will turn out to be unsuccessful.

      Fighting, arguing, or clarifying relationships is not allowed. Conflicts can drag on for a long time and bring discord to the home.

      Starting new ventures and making plans is also not recommended—they will not come to fruition.

      Hunting is also prohibited—on this day, one should not disturb hares that have young offspring.

      One should not refuse to help those in need—this is considered a bad omen.

      Weather Signs

      Based on the weather on April 26, our ancestors predicted what the summer and harvest would be like.

      A starry night on Thomas foretold a rich harvest of grain and vegetables.

      If leaves have blossomed on the oak—summer will be warm and pleasant. A lot of last year's acorns on the oak indicates a harsh cold winter.

      If the willow has bloomed—cold weather will not return.

      If the cuckoo is calling loudly—it means stable warmth.

      If frogs are croaking—it is time to sow oats.

      A cloudy day on April 26 predicts a hot but rainy summer.

      Unusual Holidays Around the World

      In addition to Orthodox traditions, several unusual holidays are celebrated around the world on April 26.

      Australian Hugging Day is a fun unofficial holiday celebrated in the USA and other countries. On this day, it is customary to hug Australians or simply express kind feelings towards people from that country. The holiday aims to emphasize the importance of friendliness and warmth in relationships between people of different cultures.

      Asexuality Day is a holiday dedicated to people who do not experience sexual attraction. It was created by the Asexual Visibility Association to raise awareness and acceptance.

      Help a Horse Day is an ecological holiday calling for care of horses and other animals.

      International Tabletop Day is an occasion to gather with friends or family for a game of Monopoly, chess, or any other board game.

      Diana Salikhzanova

      More news about the event:

      On April 26, 2026, the Day of Thomas the Myrrh-Bearer is celebrated in the folk calendar—a date that unites church and folk traditions.

      April 26: Thomas the Myrrh-Bearer, Myrrh-Bearing Women, and the prohibition on quarrels

      On April 26, 2026, the third Sunday after Easter, Orthodox Christians remember the holy myrrh-bearing women.

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      News from neighboring regions on the topic:

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      April 26.

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      What Volgograd residents should not do on Thomas the Myrrh-Bearer to avoid misfortune

      On April 26, Orthodox Christians remember the holy martyr Thomas the Egyptian, who lived in the 5th century.

      On the eve of the 3rd Sunday after Easter, the day of the memory of the holy myrrh-bearing women, at the Church of the