Archpriest Dionysy Svechnikov provided an in-depth explanation of the Church’s understanding of what occurs to a person’s soul following their passing. According to Orthodox canons, the soul transitions into eternity, a realm where our familiar earthly concepts of time lose their significance and become merely relative. Nevertheless, for the purpose of prayerful remembrance, the Church has designated specific, significant days for commemorating the departed, notably the 3rd, 9th, and 40th days subsequent to death.
These particular commemoration dates are founded upon ancient revelation, detailed in the writings of Saint Macarius of Alexandria. The “Azbuka Very” portal published the priest’s clarifications regarding the soul’s journey through preliminary temptations towards the preliminary judgment. For the initial two days, the soul, accompanied by angels, is permitted to revisit locations on Earth that held special meaning for it during life; however, it is not strictly confined to its former residence.
The definitive farewell to the earthly sphere occurs precisely on the third day. At this juncture, the soul departs the earth and ascends to the heavens for its initial presentation before God. The priest stressed that the soul is not tethered to its dwelling place, and its presence near the body or home is limited only to those first few days post-demise, after which its spiritual journey in the other world commences.
The cleric also addressed common inquiries from relatives concerning the deceased person’s belongings. Distributing clothing and household items to those in need can be done at any time; there is absolutely no necessity to await the arrival of the 40th day. A crucial spiritual element is requesting that the individuals receiving these items offer a prayer for the repose of the departed soul, thereby transforming the transfer of property into a genuine act of charity.
The Archpriest devoted specific attention to common superstitions that frequently accompany memorial gatherings. He firmly rejected the custom of placing food and alcohol before a photograph of the deceased. Father Dionysy explained: “But there is no need to place any water, vodka with bread, or similar items near the portrait; that is paganism.”
Believers should substitute such meaningless rituals with sincere prayer for the departed. The priest urged the faithful to order memorial services in the church and to perform acts of goodness in memory of the person who has passed away. It is this spiritual support and charitable giving, rather than adherence to folk omens invented by tradition, that bring true benefit to the soul of the deceased.
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