prishura

Prishura is a traditional Russian ritual involving the binding of a young woman to a tree or a stake for a period of time, typically overnight, as a means of ensuring her fertility and securing a good marriage. The practice is rooted in ancient Slavic folklore and was believed to protect the woman from evil spirits and ensure a successful marriage. The ritual often involved the woman being bound with a rope or chain, and sometimes a small animal, such as a chicken or a mouse, was also tied to her to symbolize her future husband.

The duration of the binding varied, but it was usually for a night or a few days. During this time, the woman was often left alone in the forest or a secluded area, where she would pray and sing to ward off any evil influences. The ritual was considered a sacred and important event in the life of the young woman, and it was often accompanied by a feast and celebrations.

Prishura was a widespread practice in Russia and other Slavic countries until the early 20th century, but it has since declined in popularity. Today, it is considered a relic of the past and is rarely practiced. However, it remains an important part of Russian cultural heritage and is often celebrated in folk festivals and cultural events. The ritual is also a subject of interest for historians, anthropologists, and folklorists, who study its origins, significance, and evolution over time.