Have you ever encountered people who knock on wood in the middle of a conversation? When people talk about their good luck or good luck for someone dear to them. They subconsciously knock on a piece of wood. A few of us so well engross in this conduct that we don’t understand the reasons why we’re making it happen.
In spite of the fact that we are familiar with the phrase “Knock on wood” a significant number of us are as yet uncertain of its importance or the beginning of this specific notion. Thus, we should know the significance and beginning of the expression “knock on wood.”
Why do people knock on wood?
People in different cultures follow this custom of “knocking on wood” to bring good luck and wealth into their lives. In modern times, they believe that if you say something about being lucky and knock on wood, you won’t lose it and are protecting your luck from jinxing.
The expression is most frequent when there are significant stakes.
When people look at something significant and feel like these things are unrealistic. They will say “Knock on wood” in the conversation of telling others of their good luck. Some might even go and physically knock on a piece of wood while saying the phrase. It can be anything woody, such as a table and door.
For example, someone who’s never gone to the doctor might say something along with the phrase “I have been fortunate enough to avoid any other serious health issues, knock on wood.” Or someone who has never had an accident might say “ I haven’t had an accident in so many years, knock on wood.”
Where does the phrase “Knock on wood” Originated?
The origin of the superstition “Knock on wood” is uncertain. But it has been an essential part of British vernacular culture since the 19th century. Some people believe that the practice of knocking on wood has come from the tradition of ancient superstitions culture. They believe wood and trees are a home of good spirits. Knocking on the wood was as seeking help from the good spirit and making sure that the bad spirit couldn’t even touch you.
Another theory suggests that the tradition of knocking on wood might have been inspired by a children’s game “Tiggy Touchwood” in which players had to touch a piece of wood whenever they were being caught.
Phycology behind the Knock on Wood:
Over some time the practice of knocking on wood has become a common culture all over the countries. Usually, people knock on wood in the hope that it will protect them from jinx.
The psychological factor behind this superstition is that the sound of knocking wood can attract different psychological reactions. These reactions depend on personal beliefs and cultural training. It helps in evoking a sense of wonder, fear, and curiosity. This will make you feel that bad luck has been avoided.
Why Knocking on Wood?
Knocking on wood is a practice that is to help us in bringing good fortune. But why do we only say “knock on wood” or “Touch wood” and not say things like knock on metal, or touch iron? Let’s learn the reason behind it.
In Pagans culture they use trees in human sacrifices. They believe that these trees are houses of good spirits and other fortune creatures. Therefore by knocking on or touching a tree people request good spirits to bring good fortune in their life. A second knock was an expression of gratitude.
Does Knocking on wood work?
Because knocking on wood is a superstition belief. It can’t be said that knocking on wood or saying a phrase will help in bringing good fortune in life. However, it has been said that it helps in giving peace of mind.
In fact, in one study from the University of Chicago, researchers found a different behavior pattern in person. Knocking on wood in the hope of good luck fortune can evoke a person’s confidence.
So whether you believe in superstitions or you don’t believe in. If it is helping you boost your confidence, attracting good things towards you, or feeling better, there’s no harm in knocking on wood.
Some Other Superstitions to Ward off Evil Spirits:
Whether you want to ward off misfortune or maintain good luck and prosperity. These are some of the common practices followed by numerous cultures
1. Spitting
In certain cultures, people believe that Spitting over one’s shoulder after expressing hope or making a good speech will ward off evil spirits.
2. Throwing salt
In certain cultures throwing a pinch of salt over one’s shoulder helps in preventing bad luck. However, try not to spill salt all over the place as it attracts that evil spirit right next to your doorstep.
3. Breaking a mirror:
Breaking a mirror is a sign of bad luck in many cultures. People in different culture believe that bad luck is going to persist for seven whole years.
In Roman times, it was said that a mirror was a reflection of the soul, and breaking it would have a significant effect on a person’s health. However, you can avoid this bad luck by burying the broken mirror pieces under the moonlight.
4. Black cats crossing your path:
People consider black cats as bad luck in many cultures. In other cultures in Europe people call cats companions of witches and crossing a black cat in your path means the devil is watching you.
5. Carrying a four-leaf clover:
If someone finds a four-leaf clover, it is a fortunate in many societies. People who carry one with them are accepted as a safeguard against misfortune.
6. Walking under a ladder
It is the most common superstition from the medieval era, Ladders were frequently connected with gallows. This is where individuals confronted death by hanging. Assuming somebody walked under the ladder, it was accepted that the person would ultimately confront their death by hanging.
7. Crossing fingers
Crossing a finger is a sign of good fortune. It is a simple gesture to attract good things and protect against bad luck.
Conclusion
Knocking on wood is an odd conviction that draws in amazing good fortune. In this article, we have discussed the significance, meaning, and psychological factor behind knocking on wood. Additionally, we have also mentioned some other superstitions with their explanations.