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WHAT TO DO WITH VRBICA AFTER LAZARUS SATURDAY, AS WELL AS WITH THE ONE FROM LAST YEAR: A Priest Explained How and Where to Dispose of Willow Branches
One of the main characteristics of Serbian Orthodoxy, unknown to the rest of the Christian world, is the krsna slava (family saint's day).
TL;DR
- Vrbica is a Serbian Orthodox holiday known as Lazarus Saturday, symbolizing children's joy.
- It commemorates Jesus' resurrection of Lazarus and his triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
- Willow branches symbolize the palm branches used to greet Jesus in Jerusalem.
- Children wear bells to symbolize the victory of life over death, as Jesus resurrected Lazarus.
- Blessed willow branches are taken home and placed near icons and lamps.
- Old blessed willow branches should be disposed of in nature, in a place where they won't be stepped on.