But there is one more Easter tradition that Slovaks (men particularly) enjoy partaking in. See below.
Apparently, the traditional getting doused with buckets of water, thrown into a river or whipped with willow branches is so that women will be pretty and healthy for the rest of the year. Don't ask me how or why, but that is what they claim! "Oblievačka" is the word used to describe this tradition and translates into English as " A water sprinkling". hmmm, the better choice (I would think) is the verb that accompanies this noun, oblievať. Oblievať translates into the English word "souse". I had never heard that word and had to look it up:
1. to plunge into water or other liquid; immerse.
2. to drench, as with water.
3. to dash or pour, as water.
Now, that sounds a little more accurate! Once said sousing has occurred, women are expected to pay their sousers in terms of chocolate eggs, money or vodka (age dependent). Where is the connection to Easter? Not. a. clue.
Luckily, I don't live with a family that clings to such traditions quite as strictly. I got a cup full of water that ended up half on me and half in my closet. Thanks Karol! ("host dad")
Hope you all had great Easters and that nobody got thrown into a river!
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