Unspoken superstition: why some believe that a husband and wife should not kiss at the table

Throughout history, human culture has been intertwined with superstitions and rituals, many of which have survived to this day. Among these age-old beliefs is one that suggests that husbands and wives should not clink glasses at the dinner table. Let's dive deeper into the origins and reasons behind this intriguing custom.

The origin of the tradition

To understand why some couples avoid clinking glasses, it is necessary to delve into the historical context in which this tradition originated. In ancient times, society was often marked by power struggles, political intrigue, and a general sense of uncertainty. During feasts and celebrations, people were acutely aware of the potential dangers that lurked in the shadows, one of which was poisoning.

In this unstable environment, people developed a peculiar custom of clinking glasses. This act served as a defense against betrayal. When the glasses clinked, the drinks in them mixed, making it less likely that someone would unnoticedly plant poison. In this way, guests could discreetly make sure that their fellow diners were not up to no good.

Trust in marriage

However, not all people were treated with the same level of suspicion. In a society full of mistrust, a happy and loving marriage was seen as a refuge from the chaos of the world. Husbands and wives who were bound by a harmonious bond were not expected to doubt each other's intentions. Trust was considered the foundation of a successful marriage.

This concept of trust extended to the custom of clinking glasses. Husband and wife, as symbols of trust and unity, were exempt from this practice. It was considered inappropriate for a married couple to engage in actions designed to protect against deception. Instead, they were encouraged to enjoy the mutual trust and happiness of their union.

According to this superstition, couples who choose to ignore the prohibition and clink glasses of alcohol risk bringing bad luck upon themselves. Some of the alleged consequences include an increased likelihood of quarrels, financial difficulties, and even infidelity.