Never cross objects in the shape of a crossfor example, your fork and knifeas this is considered to be an insult to the religious symbol of the cross and will bring you bad luck. This superstition is still very much alive today, even among theatre actors, who never bring a real mirror on stage to prevent it from breaking. In Italy, this is true especially when it crosses your path! These "habits" are very hard to lose, despite rationality and cartesian logic. The source of this curse is said to be envy, directed at youeither intentionally or unintentionallyby a friend, co-worker, or archenemy. Owners Blood Knife Superstition. 1. Took a while but i love it! Ci vediamo l! Their coin-like shape represents money and is, therefore, a symbol of richness and wealth that you wish for the coming year. People get around this superstition by taping a penny to the blade (or in the box or card). Also blood related: Never sheath a knife after battle if it has not tasted blood, as it will fail you the next time you need it. An old belief was that a knife placed under the mattress of a woman in labor would ease the labor pains she experienced. Some of us grew up that it is a sign of good luck if a black cat crosses your path. Same for the birthday celebrations: very rarely do people in Italy organize their birthday party in advance unless its the night before, which means youll wait until midnight to get together with your friends! Borage. Cheers! Today, ironically on Friday the 13th, let's touch on five of my favorite Italian superstitions. Learn how your comment data is processed. The bread one is not precise. Egyptian women pinch the bride on her wedding day for good luck. This is where the saying alzarsi con il piede sbagliato (literally: getting up with the wrong foot, which is the equivalent of the English idiom waking up on the wrong side of the bed) originated from. Never accept knives, scissors, or other sharp items as presents. Knives and scissors Giving anything sharp, such as a knife or scissors, is bad luck, as it's thought to sever the relationship. Its also bad luck to cross arms with anyone as you clink glasses. If you break a mirror you will be the happy beneficiary of 7 years of bad luck. In fact, despite a long and deep Catholic tradition, certain pagan rituals in Italy have persisted over time, shaping well-known customs that all Italians, whether they believe in them or not, recognize. If someone envies you or your family, the curse may be placed on those people. After a long day of sightseeing you might be tempted to toss your hat onto your beddont! While lentils might not look like a typical Italian dish, they carry a powerful meaning! For example, if you slept in a bed with knives beneath it and evil spirits never attacked you, then of course the knives offered protection from evil spirits. This effectively purchases the knife from the friend, bypassing the effect of superstition. Given that there are still people living on earth who will mistake another human for a god if he has a knife (something of such unimagineable utility it could only come from a god) its understandable how such superstitions persist. Below is the list superstitions we discuss: Malocchio The bane of many an Italian when someone looks at you in an envious manner they can give you the evil eye, even unintentionally. If the bristles of a broom touch your feet you will not get married! What about you? January 10, 2021 Many of our Italian relatives believe in superstitions. Even in those cases, I can guarantee you, that there is a level 17. We, however, think they are super cute! Cin cin! or (alla) salute!, is what you say in Italian when making a toast. Learn the local language with my unique 80/20 method. This superstition is based on the religious fact that bread is considered a symbol of life, therefore, its bad luck to turn the bread up-side-down or stick a knife into it. #17: One old wives' tales about white-handled knives is that they can tell you if your future spouse will be dark or fair by spinning it around. 15 Strange Italian Traditions and Superstitions Explained. Whether it comes to things to avoid doing, or practices to do per scaramanzia (to ward off bad luck), or jinxes to ensure that good fortune comes your way, in this guide youll discover 17 strange Italian superstitions that are taken very seriously, particularly in the south of Italy and among older generations. If meeting friends and you are not married, be aware of where you sit at the table. It doesn't matter if it's raining cats and dogs (piovendo a catinelle). If you want to protect yourself against the evil-eye, carry a corincello charm around with you at all times. . A Lucky Number. An evil eye is not necessarily malicious; it is simply a look that brings misfortune. #10: Bad things will happen if a knife falls and sticks into the floor. In the UK, Australia, or the US, after saying something that might attract bad luck, you would typically say Touch wood!. You could be struck with all kinds of sicknesses, most of which include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Today a site visitor might be shocked at which superstitious notions are taken seriously and which are taken with a grain of salt, so to speak. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Sons were more desirable in ancient times to carry on the family line. Whatever you do, try not to spill any salt or olive oil as it is considered very bad luck. Yes, the dreaded evil eye ( malocchio ), the fear of every Italian. I grew up making sure I didnt walk under a ladder. Giving something sharp to a friend can 'cut' your friendship In Ireland and several other countries, giving or passing someone a knife or scissors is said to sever the relationship. Before you take the first sip after the toast, dont forget to tap the bottom of your glass on the table! This superstition comes from the fact that as far back as the days of the Ancient Roman Empire, oil was considered a luxury so if you spilled some, it would be money wasted. 2. Nothing is worth taking that chance! We grow up with unspoken regulations to ward off bad luck, and just as casually perform rituals to draw in good fortune. Another common superstition in the dark ages was that if you crossed your knife with any other piece of cutlery at the table, it was a sign that you were involved with witchcraft. Also, never stir anything, like a stew or soup, with your knife. Photography and infographics cannot be used without permission.Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Terms and Conditions, Language Learning for Travellers & Heritage Learners, Italian Travel Phrases Cheat-Sheet! We are simply looking at knife superstitions from the perspective of interest. Some dont buy certain knives because of an unlucky serial number--like one having 666. During the sixth century, it was tradition to congratulate people who sneezed because people then believed that sneezing helped expel evil from their bodies. Italians do not care for the number 17. When 17 is viewed as the Roman numeral, XVII, and then changed anagrammatically to VIXI (just change the position of numerals), you will get your answer! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. To get the nozze (Italian for wedding) started, most couples will have a rehearsal dinner, which begins our list of traditions and superstitions. I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. Thats one instance where people are wrong who say its the thought that counts. Just thought you might want to know. It is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. In Italy, this is a sign of good luck will come your way. It is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Learn how your comment data is processed. Which of these superstitions surprised you the most? Caraway. A lot of superstitions revolve around warding off evil spirits, we collected 25 common wedding superstitions for you to consider. In Italy, its also customary when passing the salt to place it on the table first before handing it over. This superstitionwhich states that one must toss a handful of salt over their left shoulder to get rid of bad luckis also common in the U.S. It is considered unlucky as some associate this gesture with death. Among the ancient Romans, sprinkling salt on the ruins of conquered cities meant preventing them from flourishing again (as salt makes the soil infertile). A knife that falls and sticks into the floor means bad luck in the near future for the knife owner. Watch where you put your left foot! All cultures attribute great power to the human eye. Some givers often tape a penny to the blade so that the receiver will simply just return it as "payment.". 9. Giving other items in exchange for the knife gift, such as an item of clothing or jewelry, is also an acceptable exchange to avoid negative consequences. Back to Ten delightfully irrational Italian superstitions More galleries IN PICTURES: Gina Lollobrigida, the Italian film star dubbed the 'world's most beautiful woman' IN PICTURES: The history of the Vespa Not sure if you really needed to know this information but, Padua: An Overlooked Town in the Veneto Region, CLICK HERE FOR DISCLAIMER & PRIVACY POLICY. When it comes to shaking hands, Italians consider it bad luck to cross their arms when shaking someones hand. Did you know that if you are walking outside and a pigeon poops on your head, it is a sign of good luck in Italy? (Lets have a look at them!). #5: One prevalent belief still held by people today is that gifting a knife to someone will cause the relationship between the giver and the recipient to be severed. Speaking of bad luck, knife superstitions are full of situations where knives can lead to bad luck. If you thrust a knife into the door of home, its meant to provide protection for everyone who lives in that house. This website also participates in Google Adsense. since bread is the body of Christ, it's disrespectful (to leave Jesus on his head that is) Follow that up with never stick a knife into a loaf of bread which obviously doesn't include cutting it. I use my working knowledge of the English language to help you get into the Italian mindset so you can avoid the common pitfalls and errors English speakers make because I made them once too! I heard it means once again but I dont get the point of how the translation works out. Never give a knife as a housewarming present, or your new neighbor will become an enemy. Some knife owners believe that you don't truly own a knife unless it has "tasted your blood.". Like any group of fanatics, we knife lovers are not immune to superstitions, so, to embrace knife fanaticism, today I bring you 26 superstitions all about our most beloved subject: knives. Some traditions call for using your blade as soon as you get it to draw some blood from your hand, bonding the knife to you. Men must never give their wives or girlfriends a gift of perfume. For the Egyptian people, the triangle was a sacred figure. Of course, of all tools, the knife is one of the oldest and most useful. #19: In some parts of America, people believe that sharpening any blade after the sun goes down is bad luck. Please check your inbox to confirm your email. At least, thats what people in ancient China believed. The thread can be held by the woman herself, or by someone else. Funny but I just dont see the significance of this yuck being a good thing. Knives also became a status symbol, with only the rich able to afford high-quality knives, many of which were adorned with precious metals or gemstones. Like what you see? Walk around it, in front of it, behind it, but not under. 2. Watch where you lay your hat Copyright 2023 Sharpy Knives - Passionate Sharpeners, Custom Knives: Should I Buy One? I know. Knife superstitions have been credited with breaking friendships or even the simple solution for getting a good nights sleep. For example, some believe you should never close a knife if someone else opened it. The knives production, their sharpening, and general care of knives are among our biggest hobbies. Hes definitely. When you are making a toast in Italy, it is considered unlucky to do it with water. If the mirror cracks by itself, on the other hand, it means that the owner may lose a close friend. Mangia! These beliefs were generally held by the women in the household, who was responsible for preparing meals or setting tables. It's serious bad luck. Knives are very personal items to many people, so that I can relate to this situation, and I can add my own belief to this one; Dont touch my knife if you value your life!. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases with no additional costs for you. The word salario, meaning salary, is derived from sale, meaning salt. The charm, which resembles a chili pepper or a small horn, represents the horns of the Old European Moon Goddess and will bring you luck. When making a toast in Italy, its considered unlucky to do it with water. An old proverb explains this superstition: "On Tuesday, don't get married, embark on a journey or move . Home General Info 15 Italian Superstitions You Need to Know. TIP: Disposing of kitchen knives is never something that should be done casually. Another thing to avoid is having thirteen people sitting at a table! If there's been a death in the family, superstition insists that knives should be carefully handled. As one of mans earliest and most useful tools, its not surprising that many beliefs have sprung up around knives both what you should and should not do. This belief originated in the olden days when a woman who inadvertently touched her feet with a broom was considered to be bad at housework and, consequently, a bad future wife. 3. Be careful though! 11. 2. You've made it to the bestplace online to learn about survival knives and other survival gear. Forget Friday 13th being unlucky! In the U.S., people will knock on wood to avoid tempting fate. Andrea Malossini's book - which collects over one thousand superstitious - reports, in an orderly manner, Italian superstitious beliefs along with a brief description of their origin and mening.The intent is to give the reader an idea of Italian superstitions, in a smooth and easy way, hoping, thanks to the suggestion in the titles, to . No, not even on the day before! Review this list before traveling to Italy to make sure that your trip isnt cursed byMalocchio or the evil eye. The islanders deemed this service to be a fantastic and unimagineablely generous gift on the part of the gods, because it would bless their island home with the sons of the gods! . The roots of this superstition go back to the Middle Ages, when the black cat was associated with evil and witchcraft and therefore seen as bad luck. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-portrait-1','ezslot_19',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-portrait-1-0');This superstition says that you will not catch any fish if you drop a knife while out fishing and the knife lands with the blade pointing to the land. This old Chinese belief is similar to the Greek superstition about sleeping with a knife under your pillow. #15: In Finland, a knife given as a gift is a sign of respect. Walking underneath a ladder meant breaking that sacred figure and attracting misfortune upon oneself. Thats just one example. For more tips, visit my guide on Italian culture to learn 18 weird things that Italian do that no one warns you about. Unusual, unique, and uncommon facts about a diversity of subjects: Superstitions: old wives tales, folklore, bizarre beliefs, taboos, omens, lucky & unlucky things Superstition A to L includes Friday the Thirteenth Superstition M to Z Death Superstition Dreams : Meanings & Superstitions Wedding Superstition Superstitions A - L medianet_height = "250";
If the handle points at anyone else, your future spouse will be dark-skinned. Survival Knife Experts is financially supported by Amazon affiliate links. They had holes so as to string them together. #23: To make sure that a pregnant woman will give birth to a boy, the husband needs to stick a knife into the mattress of her bed. But the 17th can 'va' a cagare or vaccaga' [excuse my rudeness ;-)] As mentioned before, today's date is just another day in Italy and is associated with the goddess of fertility. Placing your knife and fork down on your plate during a meal or after the meal where the knife and fork create a cross is considered bad luck. If, however, the falls with the blade pointing out to sea, you will have a good catch that day! If someone brushes over your feet by accident, then youre destined to be single for the rest of your life. That counteracts any chance the knife has of cutting the ties that bind your relationship. So, if you find yourself at a table of thirteen, watch your back! Albert Einstein. As a matter of fact, opening an umbrella indoors may bring financial bad luck: its a sign that you may soon no longer have a warm and cosy roof to live under, or you will be hit by some sort of tragedy such as losing your job or experiencing a natural calamity. Getting off on the wrong foot. This superstition comes from a time before electricity and artificial lighting. Want my "9 Steps to Reach Fluency Faster" playbook? In dangerous times, a weapon close at hand can give a sense of security, allowing the mind to relax and enjoy a peaceful sleep. The origin of this saying is medieval and religious: in the Gospels, Friday is in fact the day of Jesus crucifixion and its reserved for penance. A knife that falls and sticks into the floor means bad luck in the near future for the knife owner. Perhaps not during Halloween but this is not true in Italy. If now a mere mortal was to know you in the same way, her will surely die! In this way the sailors were guaranteed that no other males would touch their virgins! 2. colpo dari is not unch of air it is air blow. Never pound a nail after sundown, or you will wake the tree gods. This superstition probably arose after a lifelong friend gifted the other person with a knife, and shortly after, they had a quarrel which dissolved the friendship. This superstition has its roots in religion and comes from the Last Supper, when Jesus traitor, Judas Iscariot, was the 13th and final person to be seated. This is especially true for various clubs and organizations, privately or government held. Our modern, enlightened age has largely dismissed past superstitions, but it is interesting to read these concepts and understand the role knives have played in our history and culture. If the oil beads in a row through the centre, they must pray to a male saint. 12. However, according to Italian traditions, doing this when youre sick will only make you worse. And when clinking glasses never cross between others. 4. In Italy, its common for people to tocca ferro or touch iron. We just hopethey arent touching a hot iron. Poultry & Winged Fowl. The division between good and bad days was already known in Ancient Rome, where a distinction was made between dies fasti, literally glorious or legit days (when justice could be administered) and dies nefasti, meaning ominous days. Most have their roots in ancient cultures who explained the world with stories and based belief systems on anecdotal evidence. : ( ) So many times have Italian mothers (while cleaning the house) told their daughters: Pick up your feet, Im passing the broom, otherwise youll never get married!. #14: A knife made of steel is believed to protect you against curses and fairies. A loaf of bread must always be placed on a table, facing up according to Italian traditions. Find out if you should buy a custom knife in the article below:Custom Knives: Should I Buy One? The evil eye (to mati) One of the well-known superstitions in Greece but also in numerous other countries, the 'evil eye' is believed to be caused by a compliment or jealousy. Since the sailors were tall and fair-skinned in comparison to the islanders, and the fact that they had such an amazing gift convinced the Island people that they were gods! Handing an open pocket knife to another person is considered a no-no because you will receive lousy luck in return.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_12',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0'); This belief probably arose from someone handing over an open pocket knife and accidentally cutting the other person n the process. This superstition relates to the Last Supper when 13 people when the 13th disciple betrayed Jesus. They feel it is a very unlucky number although I really couldnt figure out why. Caraway was used to scent perfumes and soaps. A tickling nose is a sign of getting drunk. The unknown of the afterlife meant that warriors did not want to enter the unknown without a weapon to defend themselves. The Italian culture has many beliefs passed down from generation to generation and even though many of them may seem absurd to an outsider, they are taken more or less seriously by natives! Every culture has its own superstitions passed down from generation to generation. Download your free PDF guide with 125 Italian travel phrases. Ladies, dont get any ideas with this one! God Bless You. Yup, there should never be 13 people sitting around a table. This belief is also linked to horses which were frightened by the devil-like eyes of cats while travelling at night. You can find them by clickinghere(Amazon link). If you find yourself sitting at a dinner table with 12 other people, then consider yourself unlucky. How to choose the best survival knife for yoursituation. Nowadays many superstitions have lost (almost) any contact with religion but theyve become a significant part of the culture and form the basis of many Italian life rules. #26: Some knife owners, particularly those in the Philippines, believe in coating the blade with their blood if they accidentally cut themselves with it. Glock Field Knife FM78 Black (12161) (#165823625419) e***e (7373) Past month. Some knife owners would never allow another person (with the exception of their SO) to touch their knives. A toast is always done with champagne or wine. The Evil Eye (Malocchio) The Evil Eye is one of the most ancient superstitions in Italy. Top 13 Italian Superstitions. While in some countries Friday the 13th is considered a bad omen, Italy has its own date that you should be fearful of, its Friday the 17th. Sleeping with a knife under your pillow gives you peace of mind that you are protected with a weapon nearby, which results in a peaceful nights sleep. The Italian culture was heavily influenced by the Roman Catholic church, which reveres religious symbols as holy relics, and any insult to these symbols was an insult to the faith. Posted by Leighton Taylor on May 13, 2014. We like to learn new knowledge about knives and therefore we decided to establish this website. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Its because the number is considered unlucky. The logic is that a knife can symbolize the severing of a relationship, so you shouldn't give it as a gift for events, especially weddings. Copyright KRUDO Knives, INC. | All rights reserved | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Design By iFame Media, Assets That Hold Value During Uncertain Times, 6 Hobbies for Guys That Arent Video Games, Selling a pocket knife is a problem? Knife superstitions are not restricted to specific geographical locations but come from all parts of the world. 1. For example, in Ireland it meant a fight was going to happen soon (but of course). The superstition about giving a knife to a friend is that the relationship is doomed because the knife will sever the friendship.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'sharpyknives_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_10',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0'); This superstition probably arose after a lifelong friend gifted the other person with a knife, and shortly after, they had a quarrel which dissolved the friendship. So, wishing someone to be into the wolfs mouth could also be interpreted as I wish you well. It was believed that a knife stuck in the front door of your house would protect you from your enemies and thieves.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'sharpyknives_com-netboard-2','ezslot_18',127,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-netboard-2-0'); It is likely that a knife stuck in the front door indicated that the homeowner is armed and dangerous, so enter at your own risk. This superstition is based on an old religious fact that bread is considered a symbol of life. I read somewhere that this superstition refers to the Last Supper as there were 13 people at the table; twelve Apostles and Jesus. Making A Toast. If you are single, be careful when a friend or family member clean the house in your presence. Thats why, if youre taking a trip to Italy and dont want to be cursed by the malocchio (evil eye), there are a few common Italian superstitions that you need to know or at least be aware of! Corno Be on the lookout for this horn . According to Italian traditions, its customary to eat lentils after the clock strikes 12:00. Why does giving somebody a knife bring bad luck? Thank you for your support! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In the ancient times and some bakers to do, bakers will cut across on top of the bread to facilitate levitation , and also to bless the bread so to say. 1. No matter what your level is, there is an Intrepid Italian course for you, including: You can join 1, 2, or all 3 courses, its entirely up to you. According to Italian traditions, a loaf of bread must always be placed facing up. 26 Knife Superstitions That May Surprise You: #1: Placing a knife under the bed of a woman giving birth is believed to ease her pain during labor. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post. #4: Hundreds of years ago, people believed that placing a knife across another piece of cutlery was a sign of witchcraft. #1: Placing a knife under the bed of a woman giving birth is believed to ease her pain during labor. bestens ! Before your Italian vacation, familiarize . An Italian superstition says that when you get out of bed you should always place your right foot first and then your left one. We share a vivid picture of life in Italy in our first-ever book. The logic of the time suggested that certain physical acts had the power to influence our lives, future, and good fortune. In Italy, if a black cat crosses your path, it is bad luck. We like to learn new knowledge about knives and therefore we decided to establish this website. If the knife's handle comes to rest pointing at you (or whoever is asking the question), then that means your future spouse will be fair. According to the Italian Superstitions website Italyville.com here are a few: Never lay a loaf of bread upside down. Do you follow this custom? William Hogarth's Credulity, Superstition, and Fanaticism So if a black cat crosses the street right in front of you and you dont want to be cursed, slow down, stop and wait for the next car to drive on jinx will hit those other poor drivers! #13: Another superstition suggests that when a knife falls to the ground, a man will soon visit. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_4',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Many social superstitions regarding knives came about because of the general superstitious nature of humans in the early part of our history. A Loaf of Bread A loaf of bread must always be placed on a table, facing up according to Italian traditions. We promise to never spam you or sell your email address. While some still hold these to be true, KRUDO Knives likes to err on the side of caution & recommend you not try anything that may cause harm or fights with your friends & family. If youre single and you see someone sweeping the floor, make a run for it. Past month. Like many countries, Italy has its fair share of wacky traditions and superstitions. Italy is home to many weird and wonderful superstitions, with many still practised by Italians today. TIP: Custom knives are a worthwhile buy for a knife enthusiast or anyone needing a superior-quality knife. This superstition is similar to gifting a knife to a friend, but in this case, the superstition is that the knife will sever the love between the couple.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'sharpyknives_com-netboard-1','ezslot_17',135,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-netboard-1-0'); Many people take this superstition further and will not give a knife as a wedding gift to avoid it becoming a problem for the couples relationship.
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