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Spilling salt is bad luck: the essence of the sign and the history of its origin
10.05.2023 22:09
Salt on the floor is not very pleasant, because you will have to take a break from cooking or eating and spend some time cleaning.
In the modern world, this small incident in the kitchen is perceived only in this way. But in the old days, it was given much more importance.
A whole layer of signs has formed that explain what will happen if you spill salt.
Spilling salt: beliefs
In the old days, it was believed that this inevitably leads to a quarrel with household members. The reason for the conflict, as it was believed, could be anything.
Over time, the interpretation of the sign was expanded. People believed that spilled salt promised not only a quarrel, but also a series of failures in personal life, financial affairs, or relationships with friends or relatives.
History of the sign
In the 21st century, most people have no problems with salt availability. In addition, there are several types in stores – iodized, sea, table. The choice is great, and the price is reasonable.
But several centuries ago the situation was completely different. Until the end of the 19th century, salt was considered a scarce and expensive commodity in many parts of the Russian Empire. The businessmen who controlled salt production were no poorer than the oil magnates of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Salt was sold in special shops. At the same time, it was released for sale in strictly defined portions.
In ordinary families, salt was worth its weight in gold, so every spilled handful would cause the owner's anger. A real quarrel could break out because of a spilled product.
This is how the sign was born that spilled salt leads to a quarrel and other misfortunes.
