läbisurumist

Läbisurumist refers to a traditional Estonian folk custom that involves the symbolic "surrounding" or "enclosing" of a person or object, often associated with protective or ritualistic practices. The term combines the Estonian words *läbi* (meaning "through" or "around") and *suruma* (meaning "to surround" or "to enclose"). This custom is rooted in older pagan beliefs and has been adapted into various modern Estonian traditions.

The practice typically involves creating a physical or symbolic boundary around an individual, household, or agricultural field to ward off negative influences such as evil spirits, misfortune, or disease. In some interpretations, a rope, branch, or other natural material is woven or arranged in a circular pattern around the person or space to represent protection. Similar customs exist in other Baltic and Slavic cultures, reflecting shared Indo-European traditions.

Läbisurumist is often performed during seasonal festivals, such as the spring equinox or harvest celebrations, when the boundary is believed to strengthen the connection between the human and spiritual worlds. In modern contexts, it may also be used in folk healing rituals or as part of wedding ceremonies to ensure prosperity. While the practice has declined with secularization, it remains a notable element of Estonian cultural heritage, preserving ancient symbolic and spiritual traditions.

The exact methods and meanings of läbisurumist can vary by region and family, but its core idea—of creating protective barriers through ritual enclosure—remains consistent. Scholars link such customs to broader European folk beliefs about maintaining harmony between humans and the unseen forces of nature.