Knocking on wood: why do we do it?
knock on wood meaning · touch wood superstition
- wood
- knocking
- luck
- evil eye
- superstition
Knocking on wood is one of the most common ways to protect good luck: when you talk about something good, you knock so you don't jinx it. Some knock three times.
Why do we knock on wood?
The belief is that talking out loud about your success or luck can attract the evil eye. Knocking on wood cancels that risk. That is why you often hear it in one breath: I'm fine, knock on wood.
Where does the custom come from?
The exact origin is unknown and there are several theories. One says ancient peoples believed spirits lived in trees and asked them for help, another that the custom appeared much later and is linked to children's games.
What if there is no wood nearby?
Many people simply knock on their own forehead, which is funny but very common. Some make do with a wooden pencil or a table. What seems to matter most is the intention.