Beregynya

Berehynia is an important figure in Ukrainian demonology, symbolizing protection, maternal care and protection of the family. She was considered the patroness of the hearth, family, fertility and nature. She was revered as a protector of people and homes from evil spirits and negative influences, ensuring peace, well-being and harmony in the home.

Berehynia was imagined as a good woman with long hair, dressed in light clothes, living near water bodies or in forests. She protected the house from diseases and failures, protected children, pregnant women and the whole family. Her image is also associated with the protection of land, crops and all living things. To ensure the protection of the house, people performed rituals and brought gifts to it.

Berehyna`s gifts included bread and salt as symbols of abundance and protection, milk and honey for health and prosperity, as well as porridge for peace in the house. Wild flowers were brought as a sign of gratitude, leaving them near water bodies or in the garden. Fabrics, threads, berries and fruits were offered to ensure fertility and well-being.

Bereginya was the personification of maternal love, care and strength, which protects from dangers and helps maintain harmony between man and nature. She was revered through amulets, embroidery and traditional rituals, believing that she helps to preserve family well-being and health.