“7 Items to Never Gift: A Superstition That Could Save You From Bad Luck and Misfortune”

3 November, 2024

Wallet

In ancient cultures, wallets were seen as a symbol of an individual’s wealth. An empty wallet signifies financial shortage, while gifting a used wallet implies a transfer of wealth from one person to another.

When giving a wallet as a gift, it is customary to place a few banknotes inside as a symbol of wealth and good fortune, transforming the meaning of an otherwise empty wallet. This gesture also conveys best wishes and care for the recipient. Such a gift not only holds material value but also embodies sincere emotions and well-wishes.

Wallets have long been associated with wealth and prosperity.

Aquarium

Fish are often considered symbols of good luck, and thus, aquariums are a popular gift choice. However, gifting an aquarium is frowned upon in some cultures. In Feng Shui, aquariums represent wealth and prosperity.

Similar to the concept of “God of Wealth,” aquariums should not be given lightly. Even if you intend to give one as a gift, the recipient may hesitate, fearing that you are taking away your family’s good fortune.

Antique Clock

Clocks symbolize the passage of time, and as time passes, we age and mature. Therefore, gifting a clock, especially to elderly family members, is generally discouraged. In Chinese, the phrase “gifting a clock” sounds similar to attending a funeral, carrying negative connotations.

Pillow

In ancient times, pillows were considered symbols of status and good luck, as well as highly personal items. By gifting a pillow without consent, you might be taking away the recipient’s luck in their career or business.

In those times, “sharing a bed” was reserved for married couples, and it was uncommon for unmarried men and women to do so. Gifting a pillow to someone could send a confusing message and lead to misunderstandings.

Shoes

Firstly, the word for “shoes” in Chinese sounds similar to the word for “evil,” so gifting shoes is believed to bring bad luck to the recipient.

In ancient times, shoes were seen as a symbol of life’s journey and new beginnings. For women, in particular, shoes are an essential part of their attire. Exposing one’s feet was often considered inappropriate and taboo. Traditionally, a husband was only allowed to see his wife’s bare feet after their wedding.

The word for “shoes” in Chinese has an unfortunate similarity to the word for “evil.”

Additionally, shoes are associated with dirt and disorder, as they are constantly in contact with the ground. Gifting shoes could be misinterpreted as an attempt to send bad luck and show disrespect to the recipient, leading to a loss of respect.

Umbrella

You may think that gifting an umbrella signifies your willingness to protect and shelter the recipient from the sun, rain, and dust, indicating that you will always be by their side and take care of them.

However, according to the Yin-Yang and Five Elements theory, the word “umbrella” in Chinese means “scatter,” which sounds similar to the word for “separate.” Therefore, gifting an umbrella could imply the beginning of a separation, potentially leading to a permanent distance between you and the recipient.

Pears

Many young people today may not realize the significance of gifting pears, seeing them as just ordinary fruit. However, in the past, it was customary to avoid gifting pears because the word “pear” sounds similar to the word for “separate” or “part.”

This rule still holds today, and pears are rarely included in gift baskets or sets. Although it is just a superstition, no one wants to be associated with such bad luck. Therefore, when choosing gifts for others, it is best to avoid including pears.