When I first saw it, I thought someone was doing renovation work(!) But then we saw the same formula on more doors and I guessed it must be some local custom I was unaware of. Probably religions in nature.
When we got to Zinting I saw it again on the door frame into Elfriede's kitchen. My curiosity bubbling over by now - I took the opportunity while stuck on a chair lift to ask her what it all meant.
From the halting translation I discovered that yes, it is a religious custom. The numbers are something to do with dates related to the christ child, three kings, some myyrr, incense, and kids coming to your door to sing carols and ask for treats and donations for the local church. From the way she described it, I figure it is a cross between christmas, halloween and a church collection drive.
What's the formula for then? Well, it seems that the chalk writing is a sign that tells people you have participated.
So, in other words, the formula has the effective meaning of "we have already been raided of all spare cash and sugary treats and have cleansed our souls, so go fleece my guilt ridden neighbour instead..."
Different country, different customs, same need to fend off the tin rattlers...
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