Why do we knock on trees and wood, and why are we compelled to knock on doors three times? Here is a look at some old superstitions about knocking.
1. Knock on Wood
The most popular superstition involves knocking on wood. According to the lore, knocking on wood wards off evil spirits and prevents disappointment.
2. Scare Off Evil Spirit
Feeling on edge? Perhaps it’s an evil spirit.
Among the peasantry in Europe, making a loud knocking sound was said to scare off evil spirits and bad energies.
3. Three Times for Luck
Knocking three times on wood brings good luck.
4. Moving Bees
In Signs, Omens and Superstitions (Milton Goldsmith, 1918) we learn:
“When putting bees into a new hive, one must knock three times on top of the old hive and tell them; otherwise they will sting you.”
5. During an Epidemic
This same book tells us:
“In case of an epidemic, never open the door of your home to any one until he has knocked three times.”
6. Bad News for the Sick
In Encyclopaedia of Superstitions, Folklore, and the Occult Sciences of the World (Cora Linn Morrison Daniels, 1903) we find:
“If a sick person tells you that someone is knocking on the bed, be prepared for the worst.”
7. Knocking and No One is There
If you hear knocking coming from where there is no one to knock, it means you are about to hear of the death of someone close to you.
8. New Home, New Luck
To bring good luck into your new home, you are supposed to knock on the door three times and trace the “Wizard’s Star” (five-pointed star) with your finger on the door.
