Didukh

The Didukh (Ukrainian: дідух, pronounced [ˈd⁽ʲ)i.dʊx]) is a traditional Ukrainian Christmas decoration. It is a sheaf of wheat stalks, often elaborately decorated, and is used to represent the harvest, ancestors, and the spirit of Christmas.

The word "didukh" literally means "grandfather spirit" or "ancestor's spirit". It is made from the last stalks of grain harvested from the fields, symbolizing the connection between the present family and their ancestors, as well as the hope for a good harvest in the coming year.

Traditionally, the didukh is brought into the house on Christmas Eve (Sviaty Vechir) and placed in a corner of the room, usually the "pokuttia" (corner where icons are kept). It remains in the house throughout the Christmas season, often until the Feast of Theophany (Jordan) on January 19th, when it is burned, symbolizing the end of the old year and the beginning of the new.

The making of a didukh is a folk art, with variations in design and materials used depending on the region. Common additions to the wheat stalks include dried flowers, herbs, ribbons, and even small figures made from straw or dough. The specific decorations and their placement often hold symbolic meaning, related to fertility, health, and prosperity.

The didukh is an important part of Ukrainian cultural heritage, representing not only a decorative element but also deep-rooted beliefs and traditions related to agriculture, family, and spirituality. It is a powerful symbol of Ukrainian identity and connection to the land.