While the exact origins of the Feast of the Dormition remain somewhat unclear, it is believed to have been established in the early centuries of Christianity. References to this feast can be found in the writings of the Holy Fathers, which date back to the end of the 4th century. Ecclesiastical historian Nikephoros Kallistos (1256-1335) notes that the observance was officially recognized in 582 AD during the reign of Emperor Maurice, who ruled from 582 to 602. However, it is likely that the tradition was already in place prior to his reign, with the emperor merely formalizing it as an official celebration.
After Christ’s resurrection, the Virgin Mary frequently prayed to God, yearning for her soul to be taken to heaven. During one of her prayers, the skies opened, and the Archangel Gabriel appeared to her, revealing that she would ascend into heaven three days later. Overjoyed by this revelation, Mary expressed her desire to see the disciples of Jesus one last time before her departure. Although they were scattered, preaching in various regions, God miraculously gathered the apostle Paul and all the other disciples in Jerusalem. The only one absent was Thomas, who was spreading the Gospel in India.
In this poignant gathering, Mary addressed each disciple by name, praising their faith and imparting her blessings. She then took communion from a priest, commemorating Christ’s body and blood. As Mary’s soul departed from the earth around 9 PM, the room was enveloped in a miraculous light. It is believed that Jesus held his mother’s soul as he escorted her into heaven, accompanied by the heavenly choir of angels.
After Mary’s soul ascended, the house was filled with enchanting fragrances, and many who were ill came to visit, finding healing through the miraculous presence of her body. The disciples spent the night in prayer, and in accordance with her wishes, the Virgin Mary was laid to rest in Gethsemane on the following Friday morning.
When Thomas, the only disciple absent during the Dormition, returned after the burial, he sought to pay his respects at her grave. Upon arrival, he found that her body was no longer there, and the tomb was filled with a sweet aroma.
Three days later, Christ carried Mary’s body to heaven, reuniting it with her soul. According to Orthodox belief, the union of body and soul after death, as exemplified in the Assumption of Mary, will be experienced by all believers after the Final Judgment.
In Georgia, St. Mary is known as Mariami, and the holiday marking her ascension is referred to as Mariamoba. This day holds special significance, as St. Mary is a central figure for Georgian Orthodox Christians. It is believed that Georgia was entrusted to Mary for the spread of Christianity, and she has long been revered as the nation’s primary protector and intercessor.
August 28 is not only a national holiday in Georgia but also marks the conclusion of a 14-day fast. Priests conduct joyful liturgies in nearly every church across the country, and Georgians celebrate Mariamoba with friends and family, continuing the festivities long after the church services have concluded.