The wheat of Saint Barbara
On December 4th, Saint Barbara's Day, tradition dictates that wheat be planted in cotton. This officially launches the period leading up to Christmas, a reflection on a Provençal tradition still very much respected to this day.
THE TRADITION OF SAINT BARBARA'S WHEAT
The origins of this tradition remain mysterious. Some see it as a resurgence of ancient fertility rites. It's unknown, and that's what adds to the charm of traditions and legends. Nevertheless, on December 4th, wheat is placed to sprout in three bowls with cotton. Three represents the Trinity in Catholicism. The grains came from the previous harvest and were intended for sowing in the next season. The bowls containing the sprouted grains were kept until Christmas, where they were placed on the table during the "Gros Souper" on December 24th. Then, they were placed in the nativity scene until Epiphany. It should be noted that wheat could be replaced by lentils or chickpeas.
According to the popular saying: "Quand lou blad yèn bèn, tout yèn bèn," which translates from Provençal to "when the wheat is doing well, everything is well." If the wheat grows well, it is interpreted as an omen that the year will be prosperous. After Epiphany, the wheat is finally planted in the ground.
SAINT BARBARA'S WHEAT TODAY
Nowadays, we no longer really fear having bad harvests, but the tradition has remained. It is now the starting point of Christmas festivities, the moment when we begin to decorate the tree, and when we set up the nativity scene. Many find in this their fond memories of childhood. Christmas is the time of year when Provençal traditions shine brightest. Not so long ago, in Marseille, these famous Saint Barbara's wheats could be found in many small shops that willingly embraced the tradition.
An association, "Wheat of Hope," sells wheat for the benefit of charitable works for sick children. For a symbolic euro, you can buy the wheat and help this association.
Saint Barbara is also the patron saint of firefighters, and the day of her feast is an occasion for celebrations and cohesion for this corps of firefighters. Tribute is paid to the deceased, and official decorations are awarded.