Why do we "touch wood" if we have tempted fate?

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Why do we "touch wood" if we have tempted fate?

2007-02-20 04:47:21 · 2 answers · asked by jo 3 in Social Science ➔ Psychology

2 answers

The phrase 'knock on wood' has several origins. One is that a lot of noise is supposed to scare away evil spirits. Another is that knocking on wood is supposed to awaken the dryad that lives in the tree so she will help protect you.

2007-02-20 04:56:22 · answer #1 · answered by Tigger 7 · 62⤊ 8⤋

I think it's to do with the cross that Jesus Christ was crucified on - seeing as it's made of wood - as a symbol for protection from God?

2007-02-20 12:56:03 · answer #2 · answered by peaches 4 · 7⤊ 42⤋