Polish folk traditions of Matka Boska Siewna

September 8 marks the liturgical feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which in Polish folk tradition is celebrated as the feast of Matka Boska Siewna (Our Lady of Sowing). As the patroness of sowings, winter crops, and autumn field work, she was historically believed to bless the fields to ensure abundant harvests.

Traditional agrarian rituals were performed to secure future yields and protect crops from pests, drought, or excessive rain. These practices included mixing sowing grain with grains from previously blessed bouquets, burying straw at the start of a furrow, and sprinkling seeds with holy water. Farmers would also make the sign of the cross over the fields to seek divine protection for their crops.