A symbol of abundance and blessing, Hidrellez celebrated across many cultures

By Anadolu staff

ISTANBUL (AA) - The spring festival Hidrellez, added to the UNESCO list of "intangible cultural heritage" in 2017 through a joint work of Türkiye and Macedonia, draws attention with its impressive story and traditions.

The festival, celebrated on May 5 and May 6, symbolizes the revival of nature, making the land fruitful, getting rid of troubles, and meeting of the prophets Hizir (al-Khidr) and Ilyas (Elijah).

The symbolism suggests that while Hizir helps and guides people who are in a difficult situation, and also brings abundance, Ilyas is believed to be the protector of the waters.

- The celebration

Rituals that have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries include jumping over a fire, making wishes and attaching a rag to a tree, drawing wishes under a rose tree, boiling various flowers and drinking it, as well as young girls keeping their belongings -- such as earrings and rings -- locked in a pot during the day for fortune.

During Hidrellez, people across the country make a fire and jump over it after making their wishes.

- Many cultures celebrate it

Hidrellez is considered a "festival" in Anatolia, Balkan countries, Crimea, Azerbaijan, and in the Middle East, Iraq, and Syria.

Other names for Hidrellez include Agrice, Alti Mayis, Agiu Giorgi, Saint George, Spring festival, Ederlez, Egrice, Egrilce, Hederlez, Hidrellez, Hiderlez, Hizir and Ilyas, Iderlez, First Summer, Mantifer, Mar Curcos, and Ruz-i Hizir (Day of Hizir).

- Significance of Hidrellez night

It is believed that Hizir and Ilyas meet every year under a rose tree at night, connecting May 5 to May 6.

According to the belief, they meet only once a year. It is also believed that they symbolize abundance, so everywhere they step on their feet turn green, and everything they touch gets fruitful and healed.