We say "bless you" when someone sneezes due to historical beliefs that sneezing could expel one's soul from the body. This practice was meant to protect the person from potential harm.
Historical Origins
The custom of saying "bless you" following a sneeze has deep roots, primarily stemming from two significant historical beliefs:
- Soul Expiration: People used to believe that a sneeze could cause someone to expel their soul out of their body. Therefore, saying "God bless you" or simply "Bless you" was a way to invoke protection, particularly against the devil who might try to snatch the soul (ORIGIN 2).
- The Bubonic Plague: During the Middle Ages, specifically in 14th century Europe, the bubonic plague or Black Death was widespread. Sneezing was a common symptom of the plague. As a result, uttering "bless you" was believed to be a way of fending off the illness (ORIGIN 2).
Evolution of the Phrase
Over time, the initial fear-based reaction evolved into a polite custom. Although the original belief systems are no longer widely held, the habit of saying "bless you" has persisted across different cultures. It is now generally regarded as a polite and kind gesture.
Key Points:
- The phrase "bless you" originated from the belief that sneezing could lead to the expulsion of one's soul.
- The custom also gained significance during the Bubonic Plague, where it was thought to be a way to avoid illness.
- While not universally practiced, it remains a common courtesy in many regions.
Summary
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Soul Protection | A sneeze was believed to expel the soul, requiring protection from evil. |
| Plague Prevention | During the Black Death, sneezing was a symptom, thus "bless you" was a protective act. |
| Current Usage | Now, it is a common courtesy showing kindness and polite consideration. |
