Garlic, salt, cuckoo: What superstitions point to goodness in Ukrainian culture

Superstitions and prohibitions play an important role in shaping cultural identity and maintaining cultural continuity. UAportal has prepared a selection of the most interesting and significant superstitions that point to goodness.

In Ukrainian culture, a number of superstitions are associated with bread. For example, it is considered bad luck to turn a loaf of bread upside down or leave a piece of bread lying on the floor. These superstitions are based on the belief that bread is a sacred food that should be treated with respect.

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Another important superstition in Ukrainian culture is the belief in the power of garlic. It is believed that if you wear a garland of garlic around your neck, it will scare away evil spirits and protect you from disease. It is also believed that hanging garlic at the front door of a house will bring good luck and prosperity.

Salt is also a powerful symbol in Ukrainian culture and is associated with both hospitality and protection. It is customary to offer bread and salt to guests when they arrive as a sign of welcome and friendship. Additionally, sprinkling salt around the perimeter of the house is believed to create a protective barrier against negative energy and evil spirits.

Birds are another common element of Ukrainian superstitions. For example, it is believed that seeing a swallow or hearing a cuckoo is good luck. However, it is believed that seeing a crow is bad luck. These beliefs are based on the symbolism of birds as messengers of good and evil.

It is worth reminding that prohibitions and superstitions in Ukraine have played a significant role in shaping the country's cultural identity. Therefore, UAportal tells you about the most common superstitions and prohibitions that exist in Ukrainian everyday life and family life.

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