Headline:
Krems’kii Danger: Ukrainian Authorities Ban Annual Ice Dive Tradition Amid Martial Law
Article:
In a stark departure from tradition, the Zaporizhzhia Regional State Administration has advised local residents to forego the traditional ice-dive rite on the eve of Epiphany‘s Orthodox celebration, citing safety concerns and adherence to martial law regulations.
Orthodox Christianity, prevalent in Ukraine, considers the Great Blessing of Water and the consequent ice dives an integral part of Epiphany rituals. However, this year, authorities are discouraging participants from venturing into freezing waters, emphasizing that the practice has no religious significance and remains prohibited under the ongoing martial law.
The ban is spearheaded by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (Main Directorate of the DSNS in Zaporizhzhia region) and local law enforcement, with support from regional administration. They point to Article 19 of the Law of Ukraine "On the Legal Regime of Martial Law" and two resolutions signed by the Zaporizhzhia Regional Defense Council (No. 167 dated October 13, 2022, and No. 186 dated May 23, 2023).
"The tradition of ice swimming on Epiphany is not linked to faith," they reminded locals. Instead, they urged them to focus on attending divine liturgy, confession, and communion—the core sacred rituals of the day.
Local clergy echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that faith, not ice dives, is the path to spiritual cleansing. They argued that neither water nor any external rituals can wash away sins; atonement comes through sincere repentance and prayer.
However, the lack of ice dives this year won’t deter religious fervor. Traditional Epiphany events will still be held across the region, with increased safety measures in place to protect worshippers.