#culinarysuperstitions

Our ancestors often trusted in superstitions, many of which seem implausible or even incredible today. Some beliefs about knives have survived to this day, based on reasonable grounds and deserving consideration. Let's explore which ones are worth believing and which ones are not.

Don't Eat from a Knife

Everyone knows that eating from a blade is dangerous, as it can easily result in cuts to the tongue and lips, especially if the edge is extremely sharp. However, according to Slavic beliefs from centuries ago, the reason is different. You shouldn't eat from a knife because it serves as a protective charm against supernatural forces and should be treated with respect and reverence. Otherwise, you risk inviting misfortune brought by evil spirits. Additionally, consuming food from a blade might fill you with negative energy, potentially leading to heart problems.

From an esoteric perspective, the tip of sharp objects accumulates negative energy, which can be transferred to your food if you eat from a knife. This could lead to both physical and psychological health issues.

A Broken Knife Brings Misfortune

Some knife-related superstitions can seem quite plausible. For instance, if a blade becomes rusty or breaks, it’s a cause for concern. The knife may have failed for various reasons, but the interpretation is the same—it signals misfortune. A broken knife could foretell quarrels, separation from a loved one, family discord, or health problems. To reduce the risk of these superstitions coming true, dispose of the damaged blade if it cannot be repaired, or restore it if possible to prevent the superstition from “working.”

Don't Pick Up or Gift Knives

Perhaps the most well-known superstition, still believed by many today, is that you shouldn't gift knives. This belief is particularly prevalent among Slavic people. However, in some other cultures, such as Japanese, knives are considered sacred objects and protective talismans. A knife as a gift symbolizes the best of wishes and a desire to protect the recipient from poverty and misfortune. In some Eastern countries, it’s even customary to place a high-quality knife in a baby’s crib to protect against evil spirits and illness. However, our ancestors had a remedy for the potential bad luck of gifting a knife—simply give a coin in return, and the gift won’t bring misfortune to its new owner.

As for finding a knife, many cultures agree that it’s best not to pick it up. The knife’s previous owner likely did not approve of passing it on to someone new, and the energy attached to the knife might bring bad luck.

A Falling Knife Signals a Guest

You may have heard the belief that when a table utensil falls to the floor, it means a guest is coming. It’s important to identify the gender associated with the utensil to predict whether the visitor will be male or female. Since a knife is masculine, its fall foretells a male guest. However, there are other nuances. For example, if the handle hits the floor before the blade, the guest is someone you know well and who is welcome in your home. Otherwise, expect a stranger. If the fallen knife’s blade points towards you, the guest will come with ill intentions. If the handle has a pattern, this person will bring news. A knife with a smooth edge predicts a pleasant conversation, while a wavy-edged blade suggests conflicts.

Modern psychologists believe that whether or not to believe in superstitions is a personal choice, and this belief can influence the outcomes of different actions involving knives. After all, there's a saying that thoughts are material. Remember, kitchen knives serve a practical purpose, not a sacred one, so there’s no need to fear superstitions about them.

Do you know of any other kitchen superstitions? Do you believe in them? Share your thoughts in the comments!