Circle of reincarnation (bonds between generations – bonds through birth). The rodiny ritual complex (the whole system of rites connected with a person's entering this world). Popular customs and beliefs connected with pregnancy and giving birth, the allowed forms of translational magic. Roles of the main characters in the birth ritual of rodiny: the birthing mother (the markers of being ready for the passage), the midwife (her status and functions), the baby’s father. What the couvade is.