How to choose the right birthday gift so as not to bring trouble: features of folk signs

Our ancestors believed that the gifts we exchange on our birthdays can have an unexpected impact on our lives. SSPDaily explains how to prepare surprises in order to positively influence the life of the birthday person.

What gifts are better not to give

• Watches.

In some cultures, you can't give a watch as a gift because it symbolizes separation and discord. The Chinese, for example, associate this thing with counting down the seconds until a person dies.

• Knife.

Giving a knife has traditionally been seen as a desire to sever ties with the recipient. It was also believed that this item brings bad luck to the family.

• Handkerchief

In Orthodox countries, the gift of a handkerchief symbolized the foresight of future tears and sadness.

• Socks

If women give socks to their husbands, it was believed that this leads to adultery.

• Books

Although many people consider books to be a great gift for any occasion, popular beliefs advise avoiding them as birthday gifts for loved ones, as they were believed to predict an impending divorce.

• Mirror.

Our ancestors believed that giving a mirror could bring bad luck to the house and potentially harm the family.

• Dishes

If you decide to give dishes as a gift, make sure they are not cracked. Put something inside, such as money, to ward off the negative effects of the surprise. There are no strict rules about the number of plates you can give, so you can use your own discretion.

• Plants or animals

To avoid trouble when gifting plants or animals, you should have asked for a symbolic "ransom", such as a coin or a few pennies.

• An empty wallet or bag

If you give these items as a gift, it was believed that money would be taken from the family of the person being gifted. To counteract this, coins were often put inside.

• House slippers

Giving slippers can bring a serious illness or even death to the new owner.

• A tie

If an unmarried woman gives a tie to a married man, it ties her to the birthday boy.

• A large vase

A large vase should be given with caution, as it can spoil the future.

• Yellow flowers

Traditionally, yellow flowers were not given to loved ones because they were associated with separation.

Gifts for prosperity and happiness

• Paraffin or wax candle

A candle symbolizes love and is considered a good omen, especially for a young family.

• A comb for your beloved woman

A comb can be a great gift for a man who wants to express his feelings.

• Scarf for your favorite man

To express your affection for your boyfriend, give him a scarf

• New shoes

Giving shoes, especially when your loved one is going on a trip, symbolizes an easy road.

• Kitchen towel

In some traditions, it is believed that a married friend who gives a young girl a kitchen towel helps her find a worthy life partner.

• Tablecloth, pillows or carpets

It is believed that these items carry positive energy and can bring happiness into the home.

• Jewelry

When gifting jewelry, make sure your intentions are pure. According to Slavic traditions, giving a ring is a positive sign, but it is important to wish the recipient well by saying, "Save and keep!"