Is a Knife Gift a Sign of Bad Luck?

Before you box one up, however, there's something you need to know: giving a blade as a gift is considered bad luck in many cultures. According to one superstition, offering a knife as a present will sever the friendship between the gift giver and recipient.

The only way around this unfortunate matter is for the gift giver to tape a coin to the knife. The coin must then be promptly removed and returned to the giver as a form of symbolic payment. This transaction prevents the relationship from being cut and, because the knife was "purchased," releases the giver from any injuries that might result from its use.

Knife-giving superstitions are prevalent the world over. For example, it's bad luck to give a knife as a wedding gift because, according to folklore, it could cut the marriage ties. For similar reasons, a pocket knife should be handed to someone only if it's closed; otherwise, it'll cause an argument.

If there's been a death in the family, superstition insists that knives should be carefully handled. This way, family members can avoid stabbing the soul of the dead. Speaking of handling knives carefully, take note of this superstition: it's bad luck to close a pocket knife when another person has left it open.

In some cases, yes. Pay attention to the specific features of your knife gift, as they can reveal paranormal self-defense qualities. Carrying a steel blade can allegedly protect you from evil spirits and curses, although the blade length won't give you more or less protection.

Meanwhile, in Greece, it's believed that putting a knife with a black grip under the pillow will prevent nightmares. You won't get any rest with a wood handle, apparently! These are things to consider before surprising a family member, friend, or special someone with their first knife this holiday season.

At this point, you're probably tempted to ditch the knife-giving idea and purchase a set of multi tools instead. But it's important to keep in mind that many of these superstitions come from murky tradition. From a modern perspective, knives are great gifts that offer beauty, utility, and stand to function as cool conversation pieces.

The key is to know your gift receiver. If you have family members who are first responders, a seat belt cutter or survival knife can be a thoughtful gift. Any person who cooks food should enjoy a set of kitchen knives. Plus, a pocket knife gift can be sentimental in the right context.

Even a superstitious person can appreciate a well-thought-out knife gift. If the blade's style helps them ward off evil spirits or protect their home, it will still be cherished. So maybe the gift of a knife isn't so bad after all.