The Day of the Prophet Samuel. What Orthodox Christians in Latvia Can and Cannot Do on September 2, 2026?

**What is Remembered in the Church on September 2, 2026** Samuel lived in the 11th century BC. He was the last, the fifteenth of the judges of Moscow. At that time, the judges were the most famous and respected Israelites. His name means “asked of God” or “heard by God.” The reason is that his mother could not conceive for a long time, prayed a lot for the possibility of pregnancy, and vowed to dedicate her child to the Lord. Therefore, when the boy turned 3 years old, his mother went to Shiloh and entrusted the child to the care of the high priest Eli. From an early age, he was distinguished from his ancestors by prophecy and profound faith. At the age of 12, Samuel had an important revelation, which he told his teacher — he informed that his entire household would have problems because Eli did not control his sons. And so it happened, the prophecy was fulfilled. The Philistines, taking advantage of the country's weakening due to Eli's inaction, defeated the Israelites, killed 30,000 Israelites, and captured the Ark of the Covenant. Eli died of grief. And Samuel was appointed in his place. Then the prophet gathered the people for great repentance. Under Samuel, the country returned to normal — the Israelites regained the cities captured during Eli's time, and the Philistines returned the ark themselves. Samuel appointed his sons Joel and Abijah as judges over Israel. But they were not as noble and honest as their father. The people saw their greed and demanded their replacement. Then they went further, wanting a king instead of judges. In the prophet's opinion, such a request rejected God. Samuel immediately foresaw that the king would become a despot, the people would become slaves, and God would cease to respond to his prayers. But he could not persuade the people. Then Samuel first anointed Saul as king, but he was so cruel and sinful that he was replaced by David. The prophet died an old man at the age of 88. It is believed that he composed the Book of Judges. His relics were later transferred from Judea to Constantinople. **The Meaning of the Holiday** On this day, one of the last prophets who preceded and predicted the coming of the Savior is remembered. **Folk Weather Signs** — High clouds — to a clear day, low clouds — to rain. — Fog — to rain. — A lot of rowan berries ripened — to rain. — Cranes flying high — to a warm autumn. — Many field mice — to a cold winter. **What Can Be Done on September 2, 2026** — Women gave gifts to their fathers, a great option is a shirt. — It is customary to prepare a large and rich lunch. — The last harvest of carrots and beets is gathered. — Honey mushrooms are gathered and must be fried with potatoes. **What Cannot Be Done on September 2, 2026** — It is not allowed to go into the forest alone. — Children cannot be left unattended even for a few minutes. — It is not allowed to cut hair or do manicures on this day. — It is very dangerous to quarrel with someone. — A bad day for matchmaking. — Do not start any new acquaintances.