Why Do We Do That? The History Behind 13 Common Traditions
Unravel the intriguing history behind everyday traditions! Discover the ancient beliefs, superstitions, and stories that have given life to the rituals we hold dear today.
This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission, at no cost to you. As always, I only recommend links I personally use and love!
From shaking hands to blowing out birthday candles, our lives are filled with traditions and rituals that have deep historical roots. But have you ever stopped to wonder why we do these things? Dive into the fascinating origins of some of our most common traditions and discover the rich tapestry of history, beliefs, and superstitions that have shaped them.
The Handshake: A Sign of Peace
Originating from ancient Greece, the handshake was a symbol of peace, showing that neither person was carrying a weapon.
Blowing Out Birthday Candles: A Silent Wish
This tradition dates back to ancient Greece and was believed to keep evil spirits away. The smoke from the candles would carry one’s wishes up to the gods.
Throwing Rice at Weddings: A Symbol of Fertility
In ancient times, rice was thrown at newlyweds to bestow prosperity and fertility upon them.
Breaking a Glass at Jewish Weddings: Remembering the Destruction
In Jewish tradition, breaking a glass during a wedding ceremony is a reminder of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.
Carrying a Bride Over the Threshold: Avoiding Evil Spirits
This tradition dates back to ancient Rome. It was believed that carrying the bride over the threshold would protect her from evil spirits lurking at the entrance of the couple’s new home.
Wearing White on Your Wedding Day: Symbolizing Purity and Innocence
The tradition of brides wearing white dates back to Victorian times, symbolizing purity and innocence.
Tossing the Bouquet: Passing on Good Fortune
Originating in England, the bride would toss her bouquet to single women as a way of passing on her good fortune.
Black Cats and Bad Luck: A Medieval Belief
In medieval times, black cats were often associated with witches and were believed to bring bad luck if they crossed your path.
Knocking on Wood: Ancient Pagan Rituals
This superstition dates back to ancient pagan times. Knocking on wood was believed to prevent evil spirits from hearing your boasts and as a way to thank the gods for good fortune.
Horseshoes for Good Luck: Protection Against Evil Spirits
Hanging a horseshoe over your door was believed to protect your home from evil spirits in ancient Europe.
Saying “God Bless You” After a Sneeze: Protecting the Soul
This tradition dates back to ancient Rome. It was believed that sneezing could expel the soul from the body, and saying “God bless you” would protect the soul from being captured by evil spirits.
Carving Jack-o’-Lanterns: Warding Off Evil Spirits
Originating in Ireland, carving faces into turnips and placing a candle inside was believed to ward off evil spirits. When the tradition came to America, pumpkins were used instead of turnips.
The Christmas Tree: Pagan Symbol of Life
The tradition of decorating evergreen trees during winter dates back to ancient pagan rituals. The trees were seen as a symbol of life during the cold, dark winter months.
17 Things We All Do But Never Admit To
17 Things We All Do But Never Admit To
21 Clues You’re Secretly a Genius (Even if You Don’t Think So)
21 Clues You’re Secretly a Genius (Even if You Don’t Think So)
14 Everyday Activities That Burn More Calories Than You Think
14 Everyday Activities That Burn More Calories Than You Think
