There are a lot of Russian superstitions that were previously followed religiously regarding lifestyle and beliefs. Even though times have changed, the majority of people still believe in them. If you don’t Russians to misjudge you, read 5 customs that you should know before going to Russia.
Take off your shoes when you enter a Russian house
Historically, this habit was brought about by the Mongol-Tatar invasion. Back in the day, everybody who stepped into the house with his/her shoes on was sentenced to death. Nowadays people just don’t want to bring dust from the streets or destroy floor covers.
Unmarried women don’t sit on the corner of the table
In Russia, only old maidens and poor relatives were placed in the most disrespectable places of the table – the corners. Therefore, this russian superstition was created: if a girl sits on the corner of the table, she will not marry for 7 years. Sitting in the corner means “left behind” and “there is no place for her”.
Russian superstitions: don’t leave empty bottles on the table
If you leave an empty bottle on the table, then supposedly, the house will always be empty (there will be nothing to put on the table). Additionally, empty bottles on the table are a discreet hint to guests that it is time for them to leave.
The historical version of this superstition goes back to the beginning of the 19th century. The Russian Cossacks came to France during a military campaign and could not ignore the local drinking establishments. In those days, a restaurant bill was counted according to the number of empty bottles that remained on the table after a meal. The Russians removed some of the bottles from the table and paid less.
However, for practical reasons, empty bottles on the table just take up space and are less stable than full ones so they are removed to prevent them from breaking.
Look in the mirror if you have to come back to get something you forgot
In Russia, coming back for something you forgot is considered a sign of bad luck. So Russians try to avoid returning at all costs. If it is really necessary, they will look into their eyes in the mirror to prevent any negative repercussions.
Don’t exchange money in the evening
Beliefs state that you shouldn’t exchange, pass to another person or count money in the evening. This is because historically, every deal that happened in darkness was considered as a dirty deal. For the same reason, it is not usual to take out the trash at this time. People believe that with the trash you can take out the happiness of the house.
Russian superstitions: do not clink glasses with your partner
Initially, people believed that clinking glasses between a husband and wife can destroy families, It could lead to arguments and fights within the family, loss of wealth and family well-being.
For the same reason, it should not happen between the groom and the bride at a wedding, and even between an unmarried couple. Superstitions say that clinking glasses at the table between a husband and wife could lead to separation, cheating or even a mental illness of one of the spouses.
