Trndez facts for kids

Trndez, also known as Tyarnndarach, is a special celebration in the Armenian Apostolic Church and Armenian Catholic Churches. It's a feast of purification, which means it's a time to cleanse and make things pure. This holiday is celebrated 40 days after the birth of Jesus.

Trndez is quite similar to another holiday called Candlemas. The two Armenian churches celebrate Trndez on slightly different days. One celebrates it on February 13th (with parties starting the evening of February 14th), and the other celebrates it on February 2nd.

The Ancient Roots of Trndez

Did you know that Trndez has very old beginnings? Its roots come from Paganism, which means it was celebrated before Christianity became widespread. Long ago, in ancient Armenia, people honored the sun and fire. They believed fire was very powerful.

This celebration was a way to welcome spring and hope for good harvests. People thought that the strong flames of the fire could get rid of the cold winter. They also believed the fire would help their land grow healthy crops and bring good luck.

Fire and Fun Traditions

One of the most exciting parts of Trndez involves fire! People, especially newlyweds (couples who just got married), would jump over the Trndez flames. They did this for good luck, to have a happy life, and to have healthy families.

The ashes from the fire were also thought to be special. People believed these ashes had healing powers. They would sometimes use the ashes like a special cream for pain. Some even rubbed them on their eyelids, hoping to improve their eyesight!

See also

• Chaharshanbe Suri
• Newroz
• Nowruz