A wake is part of the funeral ceremony for Orthodox Christians. It is believed that through memorial lunches, now-living people pay tribute to the memory of the deceased person.
What is a wake?
A wake is a memorial meal in honor ofthe deceased person. In other words, commemoration of the dead is a ritual performed in the name of their memory. The basis of the wake-up is a collective meal, arranged by the relatives of the deceased in his house or cemetery, or in a specially designated place (for example, in the dining room). According to the Orthodox tradition, the deceased person should be remembered directly in the
day his funeral, after 9 days and on the 40th day. At will, you can prepare a funeral dinner in honor of the deceased on his birthday, and on his angel's day, as well as 1 year and 3 years after his death.
A wake for the third day
Since the deceased is usually buried on the third day,the first funeral feast is usually held directly on the day of his funeral, i.e. on the third day after death. This is due to the three-day resurrection of Jesus Christ and occurs in the image of the Holy Trinity. The first wake should be mandatory for all Orthodox Christians. In Russia, on the day of the funeral, a memorial plaque, porridge, honey, cranberry jelly are served on the table. In the northern Russian latitudes, fish pies and pancakes are usually brought to the memorial table. On this day it is customary to distribute handkerchiefs and towels to all participants in the memorial meal.
Wake on the ninth day
A wake for the ninth day is nine. On this day the deceased person is commemorated in honor of the nine grades of the angels. It is believed that they, as servants of the Lord, intercede for him to pardon the deceased. On this day in honor of the deceased there is a requiem. For nine days it is customary to invite only close friends and relatives of the deceased person.
Wake on the fortieth day
Wake on the fortieth day - it's the sorokoviny. According to the Orthodox rite, to commemorate the deceased on this day, therefore, to help his soul to ascend the holy mountain of heaven Sinai. There she will be honored with the Lord's sight, will reach the promised bliss. On this day, all prayers are very important - they are called upon to make amends for the sins of the deceased. On the fortieth day, everyone who wishes to pay tribute to the memory of a departed person can come.
Wombs on other days
If desired, the relatives of the deceased person mayto remember him six months after his death, then a year later. Sometimes the commemoration is held on the day of the deceased angel, on the day of his birth and on special church holidays, and also after 3 years. A memorial meal is also held these days.
