It doesn't matter if it's raining cats and dogs (piovendo a catinelle). Knives as Wedding Gifts. 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. For example, never raise a glass thats full of water and dont cross arms with the person next to you when you clink glasses. Some have even given knives away just because this happened. A knife that falls and sticks into the floor means bad luck in the near future for the knife owner. 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. I know what its like to start from scratch and to even go back to absolute basics and learn what a verb is! To ward off the evil eye Italians often use a gesture called le corna, horns (to do so, outstretch your pinkie and index fingers with your hand facing downwards to look like horns), or wear a lucky amulet shaped like a horn (u curnicell or cornetto). 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. 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. 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! One thing they seem to have in common is that the Evil Eye is caused by jealousy and envy. In Italy, if a black cat crosses your path, it is bad luck. In Italy, however, you should say Tocca ferro! and touch some iron instead! Sons were more desirable in ancient times to carry on the family line. Planning a trip? If youre wondering, why number 17? Its also bad luck to cross arms with anyone as you clink glasses. 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. Thrusting a knife into the door of a house is believed to provide protection. It's serious bad luck. Every region seems to have its version of the Wickedness Eye, however, some take it more seriously than . In Anglo-Saxon cultures, relatives or friends sometimes buried a knife with the dead so they would not reach the other side without protection. medianet_height = "250";
2. #16: It is bad luck to say the word "knife" while at sea. A knife that falls and sticks into the floor means bad luck in the near future for the knife owner. Knives have been a part of human culture, survival, and religion for millennia, so unsurprisingly, many superstitions and beliefs have arisen over the years. colpo dari is not unch of air it is air blow. Dropping things: someone is thinking of you. Religious ceremonies and rituals frequently involved the use of knives, which led to spiritual-based superstitions around knives and their use. I promise not to spam you. Getting off on the wrong foot. The thread can be held by the woman herself, or by someone else. However, according to Italian traditions, doing this when youre sick will only make you worse. Copyright The Intrepid Guide Ltd 2022. Have you ever wondered why some hotels in Italy dont have a 17th floor? 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. A man hoping to get the gift of the gab Photo: iStockphoto. You see it everywhere, the cornicello charm which looks like a spicy red pepper. I would not have the space on my hands for all the scars! SharpyKnives.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Let us be your guide to the most beautiful places in Italy. To avoid the end of a friendship, the recipient needs to hand over a penny to the benefactor. In Somerset a double-yolked egg was viewed with concern as it foretold of a hurried wedding due to a pregnancy. The rarity and the consequently high cost of salt gave rise to a number of beliefs in the ancient world. You can find them by clickinghere(Amazon link). The first use of the Latin word superstitio is traced back to the 1st century and it was found in the writing of the historians Livy and Ovid. Many countries think the number 13 is unlucky. A superstition is defined as a notion or belief not based on science, knowledge, reason, or logic. Posted by Leighton Taylor on May 13, 2014. 2. Beware of Friday 17th. Or that in France its actually good luck to step in dog poop with your left foot? Luckily, tossing a pinch of the spilled salt over your left shoulder or dabbing a bit of spilled oil behind each ear is believed to prevent the misfortune. This means youll very rarely find the number 17 on Italian planes, streets, or in hotels, just to give a few examples. #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. Ladies, dont get any ideas with this one! If the knife is given to a friend, money must be exchanged as well. In Southern Italy, superstitions run rampant. Our first book, "Our Italian Journey," was written during our year in Italy experiencing the seducing charm of the country. Not sure good luck has come to him but it was indeed funny! A lot of superstitions revolve around warding off evil spirits, we collected 25 common wedding superstitions for you to consider. Funny but I just dont see the significance of this yuck being a good thing. For Italians, it is essential to keep an umbrella holder on the doorstep, outside the house. At least, thats what people in ancient China believed. If you must accept it, pay the giver a penny, which will reverse . Perhaps not during Halloween but this is not true in Italy. We are always looking for something to blame for our misfortunes rather than taking a good look at ourselves! This superstition is not taken so seriously anymore as nowadays people get married and go on holiday on any day of the week (unless, of course, its Friday 17th!). What about you? Even though in general thirteen isnt an unlucky number in Italy like it is in other countries, at an Italian dinner table its considered very bad luck. According to Italian traditions, its customary to eat lentils after the clock strikes 12:00. Let me know using thecomments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation. According to Italian superstition, you should never wish someone buon compleanno or tanti auguri (this is how Italians say for happy birthday), before their actual birthday. Handing someone a knife. Poultry & Winged Fowl. As a matter of fact, the left side has always been associated with the devil. The tradition of first confession and first holy communion. Never place a hat on a bed - not only is it associated with bad luck, but also death. According to Italian traditions, a loaf of bread must always be placed facing up. KRUDO Knives: when what you carry matters! Check out the complete guide on buying a Swiss Army Knife in the article below:Buyers Guide: Why & Which Swiss Army Knife You Should Buyif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-leader-4','ezslot_8',115,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-leader-4-0'); An old Irish belief is that if you drop a knife in your home, you can expect a gentleman caller, but if you drop a fork, a lady visitor will be on your doorstep shortly. After all, you dont want to take any chances! In previous centuries, people who owned a knife had an important title or a certain power over others (the head of the family for example). if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-banner-1','ezslot_1',103,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-banner-1-0');We all take knives for granted in modern times. Cin cin! or (alla) salute!, is what you say in Italian when making a toast. 1. In order to ward off tempted fates of this "jinx," Italians extend their pinkie and index finger, while holding the others down. This superstition is based on an old religious fact that bread is considered a symbol of life. KRUDO Knives, providing expertly designed knife and tool solutions for everyday situations. One of the more popular superstitions is the Malocchio (mal=bad occhio=eye) or the evil eye. Past month. The similarity of these beliefs from two distant parts of the world shows how different cultures placed the same value and significance on knives. The way around this superstition is to give a penny with a knife. 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. The idea is that once you cut yourself accidentally with a knife, you have a special bond with the knife. To prevent this from happening, the recipient should give a "payment" to ensure that the relationship will not be cut. 12. 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. The superstition about giving a knife to a friend is that the relationship is doomed because the knife will sever the friendship. All Rights Reserved. If someone envies you or your family, the curse may be placed on those people. It's the look that one person gives to another if they are jealous or envious. Copyright 2023 Sharpy Knives - Passionate Sharpeners, Custom Knives: Should I Buy One? According to Italian superstitions, you should never sit at a table with 12 other diners as this will give you bad luck. Black cats are thought to be a sign of bad luck. Traditional Irish Folklore. Youll go from a shy, confused beginner to a proficient and confident intermediate speaker, with me as your trusty guide. Associated file (a video, audio, or image file): This popular belief has a very ancient origin and has to do with the shape of an open ladder, the triangle. Whatever you do, try not to spill any salt or olive oil as it is considered very bad luck. The superstition was so common that it was described with the warning, stirring with a knife is stirring up strife!. . if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'sharpyknives_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_14',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-narrow-sky-2-0');In some cases, an eligible young woman would hope that accidentally dropping the knife would result in a gentleman caller that would be a potential suitor. 4. If you thrust a knife into the door of home, its meant to provide protection for everyone who lives in that house. Thats because they dont want the umbrella to accidentally pop open inside the house! 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. Thats just one example. As a matter of fact, the left side has always been associated with the devil. According to the Italian Superstitions website Italyville.com here are a few: Never lay a loaf of bread upside down. A similar superstition states that a knife that has bitten its owner will stay sharp longer and is less likely to accidentally cut its owner. Fortunately, I do not subscribe to this superstition and welcome all knife gifts! An itching of the right eye means sadness. A similar belief was that a knife placed under the mattress of a woman in labor would increase the chances of her giving birth to a boy. If someone brushes over your feet by accident, then youre destined to be single for the rest of your life. Mangia! Italians do not care for the number 17. Egyptian women pinch the bride on her wedding day for good luck. #8: Some knife owners believe that you never truly own a knife unless it has "bitten" you (tasted your blood). A baby born at full moon will be lucky. https://bit.ly/3msCL3p, http://martinkopm78123.myparisblog.com/6063049/-----------------/ 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 Ill buy one now and again to stock up before they get discontinued forever. For more tips, visit my guide on Italian culture to learn 18 weird things that Italian do that no one warns you about. Thrusting it into the door of a house is also believed to provide protection. It is no coincidence that the word sinistro in Italian means not only left but also sinister, as in shady, or obscure. We wouldnt want your next trip to Italy to be cursed by the evil eye calledMalocchio! Corno Be on the lookout for this horn . Forget Friday 13th being unlucky! Italians sure have an original way to wish you good luck! Superstition says that spilling salt or olive oil will bring bad luck. Review this list before traveling to Italy to make sure that your trip isnt cursed byMalocchio or the evil eye. This term carried a negative meaning and it indicated the unreasonable and excessive fear of the gods as opposed to the good and reasonable worship, the religio. If, however, the falls with the blade pointing out to sea, you will have a good catch that day! Wedding Custom Superstitions As a native English speaker who learned Italian as an adult, I know what its like to feel hopeless and lack the confidence to speak. "Topolino dei denti". During the sixth century, it was tradition to congratulate people who sneezed because people then believed that sneezing helped expel evil from their bodies. And, there you have it--twenty-six beautiful representations of what it means to revere knives (perhaps a little too much?!) In Italy, this is a sign of good luck will come your way. Yes, the dreaded evil eye ( malocchio ), the fear of every Italian. So, if this happens to you, dont panic, something good will probably happen to you! 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! Superstitions about knives come from an age where a lack of understanding required an explanation for unexplainable events. Fortunately, modern lighting means that you can safely sharpen a knife at night without the risk of ruining your luck! 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 If the bristles of a broom touch your feet you will not get married! As knife lovers, we all have our beliefs, superstitions, and idiosyncrasies regarding knives. Superstition in Italy says if you are single you should not sit at the corner of a table in Italy because it means you will not marry. In ancient times, salt was invaluable. But because they have played such a central role in the lives of millions of people, its not surprising that interesting knife traditions and knife superstitions have developed over the years. If they do, they risk attracting a more handsome rival who will steal their beloved away forever. The importance of knives in our history and culture has resulted in superstitious beliefs about using knives and how they are handled. Malocchio or "Evil Eye," is one of the Italians' main superstitions. An Italian superstition says that when you get out of bed you should always place your right foot first and then your left one. One belief that dates back to the Vikings (and is still held by many today) is that gifting a knife will cause your relationship to be severed. 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. Its believed that black cats are a symbol of witchcraft and the devil. If you are single, be careful when a friend or family member clean the house in your presence. 1. Newer Post . Sacrilegious. Finding a button on the ground: a new friendship is on the horizon. Speaking of bad luck, knife superstitions are full of situations where knives can lead to bad luck. "La Befana". 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! If you do it, either someone will tirarti un occhiataccia (give you a dirty look) or tell you to close it and open it outside. That way, the recipient can give the coin to you and pay you for the knife. 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. The roots of the Italian superstition of malocchio (Evil Eye) are in envy, and its symptoms can include headache, excessive yawning, and a general malaise. The logic of the time suggested that certain physical acts had the power to influence our lives, future, and good fortune. After 30 days of using Intrepid Italian, if you dont want to celebrate your new-found Italian skills with an Aperol Spritz, you dont have to pay a penny! Basically, knives meant power. For example, some believe you should never close a knife if someone else opened it. What does it mean when they say in italian ari facce? Sign up for news about new reviews and special offers! Italy is home to many weird and wonderful superstitions, with many still practised by Italians today. Copyright - Our Italian Journey Blog 2015, 15 Italian Superstitions You Need to Know, So there you have it, fifteen Italian superstitions you need to know. No, not even on the day before! The person who opened it must close it to avoid bad luck. Youll go from a shy, confused beginner to a proficient and confident intermediate speaker, with me as your trusty guide. A new home is always cleansed by performing a ritual such as sprinkling salt in the corners of all the rooms. Another Italian tradition is to eat lentils (lenticchie, in Italian) on New Years Eve and January 1st. my new series of online video courses that use my unique 80/20 method. It symbolizes a cutting of your friendship - in other words, your friend will soon become an enemy, according to Italian folklore. 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 . 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. Italian Superstitions: Il Malocchio. (Eat!). 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!. William Hogarth's Credulity, Superstition, and Fanaticism As a native English speaker who learned Italian as an adult, I know what its like to feel hopeless and lack the confidence to speak. #10: Bad things will happen if a knife falls and sticks into the floor. What are your knife idiosyncrasies or superstitions? Theres even a lovely rhyme to help you remember: stir with a knife and stir up strife. If you want to protect yourself against the evil-eye, carry a corincello charm around with you at all times. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post. Available on Amazon. The true origins of the myth seem to be lost to time, but the meaning of the superstition makes perfect sense. It is also important not to cross the fork and knife, as they can cause fights. A similar superstition is spilling salt on the table. This is how this superstition originated. If you are interested in checking out the best kitchen knives, we recommend buying knives made by the Wsthof company. 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. God Bless You. I have recently seen it done in some weird American table setting guide, but it's absolutely a no-no in etiquette. #11: In Iceland, it is believed that when a knife is dropped by someone while cleaning fish and the knife lands pointing in the direction of the sea, the fisherman will get a good haul the next time he goes fishing. When youre in Italy, dont put a hat on a bed! It is considered unlucky as some associate this gesture with death. This action could have severe implications in those times when witches were drowned or burned. (See you there!). I guess fishermen needed some excuse for coming home with no fish in the boat! Nowadays, however, it is very common to reply to that wish with a simple grazie or viva il lupo! (meaning, long live the wolf!). If there's been a death in the family, superstition insists that knives should be carefully handled. #22: If you cross your knife with your spoon after eating, you are indicating that the food didn't taste good and that you're wishing the cook to have bad luck. (Romania) A dropped knife means a man will visit. "Tocca ferro". Youll finally be able to connect with your Italian partner, speak to your relatives and enjoy authentic travel experiences in Italy that youve always dreamed of, and so much more. If you are a single woman with hopes of meeting your Principe Azzurro (Prince Charming), be careful around brooms! So including any kind of coin did the trick with a knife gift. This symbol can still be found nowadays as a lucky charm that Italians carry around to protect themselves. Some of them include: jinxing gestures (like le corna the horns find out more about this in my guide to Italian gestures), carrying lucky charms and amulets like the cornetto, scratching genitalia, keeping red chilli peppers at your doorstep, and saying in bocca al lupo to wish someone good luck. We especially like traditional Japanese knives. Knives were also part of a mans weaponry used in battle or defense of himself or his family. This superstition actually dates back to the Vikings who believe that gifting a knife to someone implies that the receiver isnt able to buy himself a good enough knife to kill the giver so he has to be given the knife for free. Borage. A knife crossing another knife, or even a utensil, had different meanings in different cultures. This means that if you choose to purchase one of these knives or other productson Amazon, Amazon will pay us a small commission at no extra cost to you. 2. 11. "In bocca al lupo". if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-leader-2','ezslot_6',114,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-leader-2-0');This implies that if you find a pocket knife lying about that someone else has opened it, you should not close it. Another similar superstition is that you should always give a pocket knife back the way you received it.
2. #16: It is bad luck to say the word "knife" while at sea. A knife that falls and sticks into the floor means bad luck in the near future for the knife owner. Knives have been a part of human culture, survival, and religion for millennia, so unsurprisingly, many superstitions and beliefs have arisen over the years. colpo dari is not unch of air it is air blow. Dropping things: someone is thinking of you. Religious ceremonies and rituals frequently involved the use of knives, which led to spiritual-based superstitions around knives and their use. I promise not to spam you. Getting off on the wrong foot. The thread can be held by the woman herself, or by someone else. However, according to Italian traditions, doing this when youre sick will only make you worse. Copyright The Intrepid Guide Ltd 2022. Have you ever wondered why some hotels in Italy dont have a 17th floor? 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. A man hoping to get the gift of the gab Photo: iStockphoto. You see it everywhere, the cornicello charm which looks like a spicy red pepper. I would not have the space on my hands for all the scars! SharpyKnives.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Let us be your guide to the most beautiful places in Italy. To avoid the end of a friendship, the recipient needs to hand over a penny to the benefactor. In Somerset a double-yolked egg was viewed with concern as it foretold of a hurried wedding due to a pregnancy. The rarity and the consequently high cost of salt gave rise to a number of beliefs in the ancient world. You can find them by clickinghere(Amazon link). The first use of the Latin word superstitio is traced back to the 1st century and it was found in the writing of the historians Livy and Ovid. Many countries think the number 13 is unlucky. A superstition is defined as a notion or belief not based on science, knowledge, reason, or logic. Posted by Leighton Taylor on May 13, 2014. 2. Beware of Friday 17th. Or that in France its actually good luck to step in dog poop with your left foot? Luckily, tossing a pinch of the spilled salt over your left shoulder or dabbing a bit of spilled oil behind each ear is believed to prevent the misfortune. This means youll very rarely find the number 17 on Italian planes, streets, or in hotels, just to give a few examples. #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. Ladies, dont get any ideas with this one! If the knife is given to a friend, money must be exchanged as well. In Southern Italy, superstitions run rampant. Our first book, "Our Italian Journey," was written during our year in Italy experiencing the seducing charm of the country. Not sure good luck has come to him but it was indeed funny! A lot of superstitions revolve around warding off evil spirits, we collected 25 common wedding superstitions for you to consider. Funny but I just dont see the significance of this yuck being a good thing. For Italians, it is essential to keep an umbrella holder on the doorstep, outside the house. At least, thats what people in ancient China believed. If you must accept it, pay the giver a penny, which will reverse . Perhaps not during Halloween but this is not true in Italy. We are always looking for something to blame for our misfortunes rather than taking a good look at ourselves! This superstition is not taken so seriously anymore as nowadays people get married and go on holiday on any day of the week (unless, of course, its Friday 17th!). What about you? Even though in general thirteen isnt an unlucky number in Italy like it is in other countries, at an Italian dinner table its considered very bad luck. According to Italian traditions, its customary to eat lentils after the clock strikes 12:00. Let me know using thecomments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation. According to Italian superstition, you should never wish someone buon compleanno or tanti auguri (this is how Italians say for happy birthday), before their actual birthday. Handing someone a knife. Poultry & Winged Fowl. As a matter of fact, the left side has always been associated with the devil. The tradition of first confession and first holy communion. Never place a hat on a bed - not only is it associated with bad luck, but also death. According to Italian traditions, a loaf of bread must always be placed facing up. KRUDO Knives: when what you carry matters! Check out the complete guide on buying a Swiss Army Knife in the article below:Buyers Guide: Why & Which Swiss Army Knife You Should Buyif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-leader-4','ezslot_8',115,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-leader-4-0'); An old Irish belief is that if you drop a knife in your home, you can expect a gentleman caller, but if you drop a fork, a lady visitor will be on your doorstep shortly. After all, you dont want to take any chances! In previous centuries, people who owned a knife had an important title or a certain power over others (the head of the family for example). if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-banner-1','ezslot_1',103,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-banner-1-0');We all take knives for granted in modern times. Cin cin! or (alla) salute!, is what you say in Italian when making a toast. 1. In order to ward off tempted fates of this "jinx," Italians extend their pinkie and index finger, while holding the others down. This superstition is based on an old religious fact that bread is considered a symbol of life. KRUDO Knives, providing expertly designed knife and tool solutions for everyday situations. One of the more popular superstitions is the Malocchio (mal=bad occhio=eye) or the evil eye. Past month. The similarity of these beliefs from two distant parts of the world shows how different cultures placed the same value and significance on knives. The way around this superstition is to give a penny with a knife. 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. The idea is that once you cut yourself accidentally with a knife, you have a special bond with the knife. To prevent this from happening, the recipient should give a "payment" to ensure that the relationship will not be cut. 12. 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. The superstition about giving a knife to a friend is that the relationship is doomed because the knife will sever the friendship. All Rights Reserved. If someone envies you or your family, the curse may be placed on those people. It's the look that one person gives to another if they are jealous or envious. Copyright 2023 Sharpy Knives - Passionate Sharpeners, Custom Knives: Should I Buy One? According to Italian superstitions, you should never sit at a table with 12 other diners as this will give you bad luck. Black cats are thought to be a sign of bad luck. Traditional Irish Folklore. Youll go from a shy, confused beginner to a proficient and confident intermediate speaker, with me as your trusty guide. Associated file (a video, audio, or image file): This popular belief has a very ancient origin and has to do with the shape of an open ladder, the triangle. Whatever you do, try not to spill any salt or olive oil as it is considered very bad luck. The superstition was so common that it was described with the warning, stirring with a knife is stirring up strife!. . if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'sharpyknives_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_14',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-narrow-sky-2-0');In some cases, an eligible young woman would hope that accidentally dropping the knife would result in a gentleman caller that would be a potential suitor. 4. If you thrust a knife into the door of home, its meant to provide protection for everyone who lives in that house. Thats because they dont want the umbrella to accidentally pop open inside the house! 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. Thats just one example. As a matter of fact, the left side has always been associated with the devil. According to the Italian Superstitions website Italyville.com here are a few: Never lay a loaf of bread upside down. A similar superstition states that a knife that has bitten its owner will stay sharp longer and is less likely to accidentally cut its owner. Fortunately, I do not subscribe to this superstition and welcome all knife gifts! An itching of the right eye means sadness. A similar belief was that a knife placed under the mattress of a woman in labor would increase the chances of her giving birth to a boy. If someone brushes over your feet by accident, then youre destined to be single for the rest of your life. Mangia! Italians do not care for the number 17. Egyptian women pinch the bride on her wedding day for good luck. #8: Some knife owners believe that you never truly own a knife unless it has "bitten" you (tasted your blood). A baby born at full moon will be lucky. https://bit.ly/3msCL3p, http://martinkopm78123.myparisblog.com/6063049/-----------------/ 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 Ill buy one now and again to stock up before they get discontinued forever. For more tips, visit my guide on Italian culture to learn 18 weird things that Italian do that no one warns you about. Thrusting it into the door of a house is also believed to provide protection. It is no coincidence that the word sinistro in Italian means not only left but also sinister, as in shady, or obscure. We wouldnt want your next trip to Italy to be cursed by the evil eye calledMalocchio! Corno Be on the lookout for this horn . Forget Friday 13th being unlucky! Italians sure have an original way to wish you good luck! Superstition says that spilling salt or olive oil will bring bad luck. Review this list before traveling to Italy to make sure that your trip isnt cursed byMalocchio or the evil eye. This term carried a negative meaning and it indicated the unreasonable and excessive fear of the gods as opposed to the good and reasonable worship, the religio. If, however, the falls with the blade pointing out to sea, you will have a good catch that day! Wedding Custom Superstitions As a native English speaker who learned Italian as an adult, I know what its like to feel hopeless and lack the confidence to speak. "Topolino dei denti". During the sixth century, it was tradition to congratulate people who sneezed because people then believed that sneezing helped expel evil from their bodies. And, there you have it--twenty-six beautiful representations of what it means to revere knives (perhaps a little too much?!) In Italy, this is a sign of good luck will come your way. Yes, the dreaded evil eye ( malocchio ), the fear of every Italian. So, if this happens to you, dont panic, something good will probably happen to you! 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! Superstitions about knives come from an age where a lack of understanding required an explanation for unexplainable events. Fortunately, modern lighting means that you can safely sharpen a knife at night without the risk of ruining your luck! 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 If the bristles of a broom touch your feet you will not get married! As knife lovers, we all have our beliefs, superstitions, and idiosyncrasies regarding knives. Superstition in Italy says if you are single you should not sit at the corner of a table in Italy because it means you will not marry. In ancient times, salt was invaluable. But because they have played such a central role in the lives of millions of people, its not surprising that interesting knife traditions and knife superstitions have developed over the years. If they do, they risk attracting a more handsome rival who will steal their beloved away forever. The importance of knives in our history and culture has resulted in superstitious beliefs about using knives and how they are handled. Malocchio or "Evil Eye," is one of the Italians' main superstitions. An Italian superstition says that when you get out of bed you should always place your right foot first and then your left one. One belief that dates back to the Vikings (and is still held by many today) is that gifting a knife will cause your relationship to be severed. 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. Its believed that black cats are a symbol of witchcraft and the devil. If you are single, be careful when a friend or family member clean the house in your presence. 1. Newer Post . Sacrilegious. Finding a button on the ground: a new friendship is on the horizon. Speaking of bad luck, knife superstitions are full of situations where knives can lead to bad luck. "La Befana". 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! If you do it, either someone will tirarti un occhiataccia (give you a dirty look) or tell you to close it and open it outside. That way, the recipient can give the coin to you and pay you for the knife. 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. The roots of the Italian superstition of malocchio (Evil Eye) are in envy, and its symptoms can include headache, excessive yawning, and a general malaise. The logic of the time suggested that certain physical acts had the power to influence our lives, future, and good fortune. After 30 days of using Intrepid Italian, if you dont want to celebrate your new-found Italian skills with an Aperol Spritz, you dont have to pay a penny! Basically, knives meant power. For example, some believe you should never close a knife if someone else opened it. What does it mean when they say in italian ari facce? Sign up for news about new reviews and special offers! Italy is home to many weird and wonderful superstitions, with many still practised by Italians today. Copyright - Our Italian Journey Blog 2015, 15 Italian Superstitions You Need to Know, So there you have it, fifteen Italian superstitions you need to know. No, not even on the day before! The person who opened it must close it to avoid bad luck. Youll go from a shy, confused beginner to a proficient and confident intermediate speaker, with me as your trusty guide. A new home is always cleansed by performing a ritual such as sprinkling salt in the corners of all the rooms. Another Italian tradition is to eat lentils (lenticchie, in Italian) on New Years Eve and January 1st. my new series of online video courses that use my unique 80/20 method. It symbolizes a cutting of your friendship - in other words, your friend will soon become an enemy, according to Italian folklore. 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 . 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. Italian Superstitions: Il Malocchio. (Eat!). 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!. William Hogarth's Credulity, Superstition, and Fanaticism As a native English speaker who learned Italian as an adult, I know what its like to feel hopeless and lack the confidence to speak. #10: Bad things will happen if a knife falls and sticks into the floor. What are your knife idiosyncrasies or superstitions? Theres even a lovely rhyme to help you remember: stir with a knife and stir up strife. If you want to protect yourself against the evil-eye, carry a corincello charm around with you at all times. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post. Available on Amazon. The true origins of the myth seem to be lost to time, but the meaning of the superstition makes perfect sense. It is also important not to cross the fork and knife, as they can cause fights. A similar superstition is spilling salt on the table. This is how this superstition originated. If you are interested in checking out the best kitchen knives, we recommend buying knives made by the Wsthof company. 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. God Bless You. I have recently seen it done in some weird American table setting guide, but it's absolutely a no-no in etiquette. #11: In Iceland, it is believed that when a knife is dropped by someone while cleaning fish and the knife lands pointing in the direction of the sea, the fisherman will get a good haul the next time he goes fishing. When youre in Italy, dont put a hat on a bed! It is considered unlucky as some associate this gesture with death. This action could have severe implications in those times when witches were drowned or burned. (See you there!). I guess fishermen needed some excuse for coming home with no fish in the boat! Nowadays, however, it is very common to reply to that wish with a simple grazie or viva il lupo! (meaning, long live the wolf!). If there's been a death in the family, superstition insists that knives should be carefully handled. #22: If you cross your knife with your spoon after eating, you are indicating that the food didn't taste good and that you're wishing the cook to have bad luck. (Romania) A dropped knife means a man will visit. "Tocca ferro". Youll finally be able to connect with your Italian partner, speak to your relatives and enjoy authentic travel experiences in Italy that youve always dreamed of, and so much more. If you are a single woman with hopes of meeting your Principe Azzurro (Prince Charming), be careful around brooms! So including any kind of coin did the trick with a knife gift. This symbol can still be found nowadays as a lucky charm that Italians carry around to protect themselves. Some of them include: jinxing gestures (like le corna the horns find out more about this in my guide to Italian gestures), carrying lucky charms and amulets like the cornetto, scratching genitalia, keeping red chilli peppers at your doorstep, and saying in bocca al lupo to wish someone good luck. We especially like traditional Japanese knives. Knives were also part of a mans weaponry used in battle or defense of himself or his family. This superstition actually dates back to the Vikings who believe that gifting a knife to someone implies that the receiver isnt able to buy himself a good enough knife to kill the giver so he has to be given the knife for free. Borage. A knife crossing another knife, or even a utensil, had different meanings in different cultures. This means that if you choose to purchase one of these knives or other productson Amazon, Amazon will pay us a small commission at no extra cost to you. 2. 11. "In bocca al lupo". if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sharpyknives_com-leader-2','ezslot_6',114,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sharpyknives_com-leader-2-0');This implies that if you find a pocket knife lying about that someone else has opened it, you should not close it. Another similar superstition is that you should always give a pocket knife back the way you received it.