What not to give for birthdays and holidays: superstitions and signs

Gifts have always been a symbol of love and care, but not all gifts are considered safe. In fact, there are certain items that, according to folklore and superstition, bring bad luck or harm to the recipient. SSPDaily has reviewed eight gifts that should not be given for a birthday or any other special occasion.

Watches

According to popular belief, giving someone a watch can symbolize a breakup. In some Eastern cultures, it is even associated with counting down to a person's death. To avoid any negative connotations, you should choose another gift.

Knives.

Superstitions related to knives differ from region to region. In some cultures, such as the Caucasus, giving a knife is considered a positive gesture. However, in Europe, America, and Ukraine, knives are believed to break off relationships between people.

Socks and underwear

While some may consider gifts such as socks, underwear, or shaving foam to be humorous, they are best avoided. Men especially do not appreciate such gifts and may perceive them as a lack of attention. Women were forbidden to give socks to their husbands, otherwise he would leave home for another woman.

Dishes and kitchen utensils

Household items are a subjective choice, and according to etiquette, it is better to refrain from giving them. However, beliefs also warn that empty dishes can bring spiritual and material poverty. If you do decide to give dishes as a gift, consider putting a coin inside to symbolize prosperity.

Flowers or animals

Living beings, whether pets or plants, carry their own energy. It is believed that gifting them can cause difficulties, for example, the animal may not adapt to the new home or cause conflicts between the owners. If you must give such items, ask for a symbolic amount, such as a few coins, as a form of reciprocity.

Ties and slippers

In some rural areas, there is a superstition about slippers. It is believed that by giving slippers, you are essentially leading a person to their death, especially if they are white. On the other hand, it is believed that a tie symbolically connects the recipient to the giver. However, this belief may not be true if the gift is given to a very close person where emotional dependence is not a concern.

Chains and bracelets

According to popular belief, if an accessory like a chain or bracelet breaks, it is considered a harbinger of potential quarrels between people. If such a thing was given by a loved one, its loss or deformation can be interpreted as a precursor to a breakup. To avoid such situations, it is better to choose another gift.

Boxes and decorative candles

In popular superstition, candles are often associated with funerals. If you bring decorative candles as a gift to someone's home, it is believed that this symbolizes the arrival of serious illness or dangerous life circumstances. Similarly, giving a box can mean that the recipient will begin to hide their thoughts, feelings and actions from the donor, as required by the signs.