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Gradivnyk
The gardener in Ukrainian demonology is a spirit that guards the fields and crops, as well as protects the village from bad weather. It is associated with prosperity in agriculture, helping farmers and landowners to reap bountiful harvests. The gardener is considered the patron of the land and plants, making sure that the crops are protected from pests and natural disasters.
The main function of the Gardener is the ability to influence the weather. This ability is acquired at birth, but it is also possible to become a Gravedigger by entering into an alliance with a warlock or by acquiring magical items such as a wand or a candle. When a storm approaches, Gradovnik runs on the ground, waving his arms as if during a fight, crosses the clouds with three straws, uttering an incantation, and rings the bells.
Gradovnik`s appearance varies, but he is often described as a man with the features of nature: green hair that resembles grass, and clothes made of leaves and flowers. Its presence can be accompanied by the aroma of fresh earth and flowers. The Gardener sometimes appears as lights of light that guide travelers to fertile lands.
The gardener is known for his kindness, but he can take revenge on those who mistreat nature or destroy crops. To appease Gradovnik, people performed various rites, left him part of the harvest or brought gifts such as bread, salt and other products. Protection from his wrath required respect for nature and observance of agricultural traditions. It was believed that sincere intentions and the right approach to land cultivation could attract the favor of the Gardener and ensure a good harvest.
The main function of the Gardener is the ability to influence the weather. This ability is acquired at birth, but it is also possible to become a Gravedigger by entering into an alliance with a warlock or by acquiring magical items such as a wand or a candle. When a storm approaches, Gradovnik runs on the ground, waving his arms as if during a fight, crosses the clouds with three straws, uttering an incantation, and rings the bells.
Gradovnik`s appearance varies, but he is often described as a man with the features of nature: green hair that resembles grass, and clothes made of leaves and flowers. Its presence can be accompanied by the aroma of fresh earth and flowers. The Gardener sometimes appears as lights of light that guide travelers to fertile lands.
The gardener is known for his kindness, but he can take revenge on those who mistreat nature or destroy crops. To appease Gradovnik, people performed various rites, left him part of the harvest or brought gifts such as bread, salt and other products. Protection from his wrath required respect for nature and observance of agricultural traditions. It was believed that sincere intentions and the right approach to land cultivation could attract the favor of the Gardener and ensure a good harvest.