1. Chinese Beliefs
In Chinese culture:
- Gifting knives (or scissors) is bad feng shui.
- It’s believed to “cut” the relationship between the giver and receiver.
- You might be unknowingly inviting misfortune into their life.
Remedy: The receiver gives a coin in return — symbolically turning it into a purchase, not a gift.
2. Japanese Culture
Japan shares similar beliefs:
- A knife gift can symbolize severing a bond or inviting misfortune.
- However, there’s a twist:
Samurai tradition sometimes viewed knives as a protective gift — especially in warrior households.
✅ Remedy: Include a coin or token with the knife — so it becomes a transaction, not a curse.
3. Western Superstitions
In many European traditions:
- Gifting a knife was seen as bringing bad luck, especially between lovers or close friends.
- It could symbolize betrayal, quarrels, or the end of the relationship.
✅ Remedy: Again, the coin trick — a penny or small coin “sells” the knife, canceling out the superstition.
4. Philippines, Thailand & Southeast Asia
- Knives are thought to break harmony if given directly.
- In some areas, it’s taboo to even touch a knife as a gift without a small exchange.
✅ Remedy: Always return a token amount of money, even if just symbolic.
Religious Views on Gifting Knives
Islamic Perspective
Islam doesn’t label knife-giving as haram or explicitly unlucky. However:
- Giving gifts is a recommended sunnah, meant to increase love and connection.
- If a gift carries a cultural meaning of breaking ties, it’s best to avoid it — to preserve unity and avoid doubt (shubha).
Islamic Verdict: Not forbidden — but culturally, it may be wiser to avoid or include a coin to honor local traditions.
Christianity
- The Bible doesn’t speak against gifting knives.
- But in Christian folklore (especially in Europe), knives as gifts were often seen as omens of betrayal — similar to Judas’ kiss.
- Sharp objects were avoided as gifts during baptisms, weddings, or holidays to prevent spiritual harm.
Christian Verdict: No religious law — but culturally sensitive. Pair with a coin if in doubt.
Hinduism
In Hindu culture:
- Knives or blades are associated with Kali and Shakti — deities of power and transformation.
- Gifting knives can be seen as invoking that power — but without rituals, it may be considered inauspicious.
- Especially avoided during festivals like Diwali or during weddings.
Hindu Verdict: Better avoided unless it’s a ritual offering — or use a coin to neutralize any ill luck.
Sikhism
- Knives (kirpans) are sacred — one of the Five Ks.
- However, everyday knife-gifting isn’t associated with superstition in Sikh teachings.
- Gifting is judged by intention, not by object.
Sikh Verdict: Not bad luck — but respect for the recipient’s beliefs is always important.
Scientific & Psychological Perspective
There’s no scientific proof that giving knives brings misfortune.
However:
- Superstitions can affect perception. If someone believes it’s bad luck, the fear can lead to stress or strain.
- Some studies in behavioral psychology suggest that symbolic gestures — like receiving a coin — reduce anxiety in such situations.
Science Verdict: It’s all about mind over matter — belief creates the outcome.
Personal Reflection
Once, I gifted my brother a chef knife set because he was passionate about cooking. But my mom immediately said, ‘Don’t give knives as gifts — they can sever relationships!’
Then she said, ‘Just take one rupee from him — so it counts as a purchase instead.’
It felt strange, but that one rupee eased my guilt — and my brother happily accepted the gift.
What to Do If You Want to Gift a Knife Anyway?
Include a Coin — Even if it’s symbolic (like a penny or 1 rupee). Tell the recipient to “buy” it from you.
Add a Note — A small message like “This gift is to protect and support you, not cut ties.”
Be Culturally Sensitive — If the person belongs to a culture where it’s considered bad luck, respect that belief.
Conclusion: Is It Truly Bad Luck?
| Aspect | Verdict |
| Spiritual | Often seen as risky or symbol of cutting ties |
| Cultural | Many traditions discourage it |
| Religious | No strong prohibitions, but advice to be mindful |
| Scientific | No evidence — belief may influence outcome |
| Practical Tip | Always add a coin to turn gift into symbolic purchase |
Final Verdict: Gifting a knife isn’t inherently bad luck — but it carries sharp symbolism. With the right intent and a small coin, you can gift even a blade with love and good energy.
