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Man touching tree bark

I Love You Lord (Laurie- Klein) featuring the Portsmouth Gospel Choir recorded and produced by Joffy James

So last blog I looked at the expression “fingers crossed” and found that its origins may be found in Christianity – so what about “touch wood”?
Wikipedia states that it is apotropaic or protective magic intended to turn away harm or evil influences, as in deflecting misfortune. So touching wood, or merely stating that one is doing so is done to avoid “tempting fate” after making a statement you wish to come true. Interestingly in USA the expression is more likely to be “Knocking on wood” or “knock on wood” as in the Eddie Floyd classic soul song (Eddie, incidentally, is still alive aged 85)
Some believe the origin of the expression can be traced to ancient Celtic peoples, who believed it called on spirits or gods of the trees. Others believe that it comes from Christianity and relates to the wood of the cross of crucifixion. A more modern theory from folklore researcher Steve Roud suggests it derives from a form of tag called “Tiggy Touchwood” in which players are safe from being tagged if they are touching wood.
I personally avoid the expression as I am not a fan of anything that could be construed as superstitious, which leads me nicely (I hope) to next week’s blog which focuses on fear.

Quote of the week