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What not to do when you have guests at home: omens and superstitions

Ihor Romanko

What omens and superstitions are associated with the arrival of guests

In many cultures and traditions, guests play a significant role in people's lives. Hosting guests carries a significant responsibility, and some individuals believe in various superstitions and signs associated with this process. Here are some examples of such superstitions and omens.

Read also: What to do if you spill salt and what it means

  1. Don't let a guest leave if they forget something important. In some cultures, it is believed that if a guest forgets something important, such as keys or money, they should return to retrieve it. Allowing your guest to depart without waiting for them to reclaim their belongings may result in their return at an even less convenient time.
  2. When hosting, never sit at the edge of the table. In many cultures, sitting at the edge of the table while hosting is considered an unlucky sign. Instead, the host should sit in the center of the table to demonstrate their hospitality and respect for the guests.
  3. Don't leave the house before the guests have finished eating. In many cultures, leaving the house before the guests have completed their meal is deemed impolite and can lead to discontent and resentment.
  4. Don't offer guests food that you don't like. In some cultures, it is believed that serving guests food you dislike can bring bad luck to the household. Therefore, it's advisable to ensure that the treats you offer are enjoyable for both you and your guests.
  5. Don't bring empty dishes in from the balcony. In some cultures, it is believed that bringing in empty dishes from the balcony can bring bad luck to the house. This superstition is connected to the historical practice of using empty containers on balconies to collect rainwater in the Middle East. Therefore, bringing in empty dishes from the balcony may be associated with misfortune and bad luck.
  6. Do not send guests out if there is a storm outside the window. In many cultures, it is believed that during a storm, it's best not to send guests outside, as it can lead to bad luck. Instead, it's advisable to wait until the storm subsides.

Earlier, we wrote about why you shouldn't gift potted flowers.

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