The Feast of the Transfiguration in Georgia

The Feast of the Transfiguration, known in Georgia as Metamorphosis or “Peristsvaleba,” holds a deeply spiritual meaning for Georgians and is one of the most important days in the Orthodox Christian calendar. Celebrated every year on August 19 according to the Julian calendar used by the Georgian Orthodox Church, this feast commemorates the moment when Jesus Christ revealed his divine nature to his disciples on Mount Tabor, shining in radiant glory and confirming his mission as the Son of God. For Georgians, who have been Christians since the 4th century when St. Nino brought the faith to the country, the Feast of the Transfiguration is not only a reminder of biblical events but also a living tradition that connects faith, culture, and daily life. On this day, churches across Georgia hold solemn liturgies filled with prayers, hymns, and the blessing of harvest fruits. Among these fruits, grapes hold a particularly symbolic place. Georgia is considered the cradle of wine, with a winemaking history dating back over 8,000 years, and on the Feast of the Transfiguration, the first grapes of the season are taken to church and blessed by priests. This act reflects gratitude to God for the harvest and symbolizes spiritual transformation, much like the Transfiguration itself symbolizes the transformation of Christ’s image. Families bring baskets filled with grapes, apples, pears, figs, and peaches, and after the blessing these fruits are shared among relatives and neighbors, reinforcing a sense of community and generosity. Traditionally, before this feast, eating grapes was avoided, and the blessing marked the moment when Georgians could finally taste the new harvest. Beyond its liturgical meaning, the day also carries cultural significance. In many regions of Georgia, especially in Kakheti and Kartli where vineyards dominate the landscape, villagers gather in churches early in the morning, attend the service, and then spend the day together in celebration. The atmosphere is filled with joy, as people dress in their best clothes, sing folk songs, and prepare festive meals. The feast is also seen as a time of spiritual reflection, encouraging individuals to seek inner change and purification, just as Christ’s Transfiguration calls believers to rise above worldly concerns and embrace divine light. In Georgian society, where faith and tradition are deeply intertwined, the Feast of the Transfiguration serves as a bridge between the sacred and the everyday. It is not only a religious observance but also a celebration of nature’s abundance, family ties, and the nation’s historic bond with Christianity. Even younger generations, who may not attend church regularly, recognize this day as part of their cultural identity and often participate in family rituals, vineyard visits, and community gatherings. For visitors traveling in Georgia during August, witnessing the Feast of the Transfiguration offers a rare insight into the spiritual heart of the country. Tourists may observe how locals bring grapes to ancient stone churches nestled in the mountains, how priests bless the fruit with holy water, and how families gather afterwards to share food and wine under the summer sun. The simplicity yet depth of the celebration demonstrates the way Georgians connect their daily lives to faith. Ultimately, the Feast of the Transfiguration for Georgians is a day of light, both literal and spiritual, reminding everyone of transformation, renewal, and gratitude. It reflects the unique harmony of religion, history, and tradition that has shaped Georgia for centuries, making it an essential celebration in the Georgian calendar.