The negative attitude towards knives in the context of folk beliefs is associated with black magic rituals, which cannot be performed without bladed weapons.
This is why northern people are in no hurry to accept knives as gifts: what if the knife starts talking or does something else bad?
The sign says that a knife given as a gift can “cut” the good relationship between the giver and the birthday boy.
Many give newlyweds practical gifts that will be useful in everyday life. A set of kitchen knives is no exception. However, the belief says that this gift promises a short-lived marriage.
The sign says that a knife given as a New Year's gift will "cut" all paths to happiness and well-being. The person will be "wandering in the woods" for the entire 12 months.
Closely related to the sign about newlyweds. The belief warns that the new settlers will live as if "on knives": quarrels, conflicts and other troubles.