The Orthodox branch of Christianity in Russia acquires bizarre features, characterized by many rites, signs and traditions. The population in large cities of Russia lives a secular life, despite the fact that many Russians are religious. In remote settlements, especially among indigenous peoples, traditions that appeared on this land many centuries ago are preserved. Werner Herzog visited the most remote corners of Russia to give an insight into the unusual rituals in the movie Bells from the Deep.
One of the most unusual traditions is baptism: the child’s head is dipped in icy holy water. According to Orthodox tradition, the mother cannot be present at the ceremony (Herzog, 2012, 00:14:00-00:15:00). In the old days, baptism had to be carried out the sooner the better, and the mother could not be in the temple for the first 40 days after childbirth. Another interesting moment is connected with holy water: Russians carry five-liter bottles of water to the temple in order to receive holy water on major church holidays.
One of the beliefs that has existed in the Orthodox world for several centuries is the legend of the city of Kitezh, an analogue of Atlantis. According to the myth, the conquers wanted to capture Kitezhgrad; however, the streams broke out of the ground and the city went under water. Since then, believers have been trying to find evidence of the existence of this mythical place (Herzog, 2012, 00:30:00-00:55:00). Only those who are pure in heart and soul can find eternal peace in Kitezhgrad.
Not only the religious traditions of the Orthodox are interesting, but the history of religion in Russia in the last century. During communist rule, religion became illegal and churches were demolished or misused. Nevertheless, the Russians did not cease to be believers, the rites of baptism, weddings, funerals were still held. When industry grew in large cities and factories were built, in remote villages people continued to live in the old way, to be treated with rituals and to pray.
Thus, religiosity manifestations in Russia can take on bizarre features. Orthodox rites may seem strange, but they are an integral part of the culture of many Russian peoples. The religiosity of Russians is strong, and it did not transform even during the ban on faith. Despite the fact that Russia is a large multinational country, all people are united by a special reverent attitude towards their traditions.
Reference
Herzog, W. (2012). Bells from the Deep [Video]. Web.