In times when the forests were dense, the rivers full-flowing, and the earth still carried the breath of the gods, the ancient Estonians revered Fire as a heavenly gift, the keeper of life, and the protector of their kin. They said that within the flames lay the power of nature itself — the warmth of the sun, the wrath of thunder, and the light of the stars. Without fire, there was no home, no warmth, no food, nor peace.
In every dwelling burned a hearth — the heart of the home, warming both bodies and souls. This fire was not mere flame but sacred, for through it, the gods shielded humankind. If the hearth went out, it foretold misfortune, and so it was honored, nurtured, and fed with dry wood.
On the great days of the year, when the sun stood high in the sky or, conversely, withdrew beyond the horizon, the people of Estonia gathered in sacred places. There, they lit mighty bonfires whose tongues of flame stretched toward the heavens, so the gods would see them. The festival of summer solstice, called Jaanipäev, was particularly celebrated. People sang songs, danced in circles, and leaped over the blazing fire, seeking its cleansing and blessing. They said that whoever leaped over the fire would carry its strength with them, and whoever brought a spark from the fire back home would preserve happiness and prosperity within their household.
Fire was both a healer and a protector. When misfortune or illness struck, they kindled cleansing fires, drove livestock through them, and smoked their homes with the sacred fumes. When enemies threatened their land, fiery signals were lit on high hills, summoning the people to arms.
In the autumn days, when the harvest was complete and the earth prepared for rest, fires of gratitude were lit. Through the flames, prayers were sent to the spirits of the fields and forests, giving thanks for their gifts. And on long nights, when ancestors were invited to the feast, candles were lit to guide their souls home to their kin.
During the days of great divination, when destiny inclined toward the people, they turned to the fire for omens. The crackle of the flames, their dance, and their smoke told of what was to come. The elders would say, “Look into the fire, and it will reveal truths hidden from mortal eyes.”
Thus, Fire lived with the Estonians, guarding and guiding them. Even now, in the sparks of a hearth’s flame or the dancing light of a bonfire, one can glimpse the memory of those times when the world breathed magic and humanity was one with nature.