Healing Light

Why We Toss Salt Over Our Left Shoulder

Yesterday’s post Salt of the Earth was all about salt, what it represents and how it can be used in metaphysical practices. While I was writing, I thought about the practice of throwing salt over your left shoulder if you have spilled it. I have done this since I can remember – I am highly superstitious – but I never knew why, specifically, until today.

We’ve all been there: a clumsy moment, a tipped salt shaker, and a scattering of white crystals across the table. Before you reach for the broom, you might instinctively grab a pinch and toss it over your left shoulder. But why? This seemingly simple act is steeped in ancient superstition, a fascinating glimpse into our collective understanding of energy and the unseen.

The core belief behind this practice is that spilling salt invites bad luck. To counteract this, a pinch of salt is thrown over the left shoulder, symbolically “blinding” the devil, or any negative entity, believed to be lurking there. In many cultures, the left side is traditionally associated with the sinister, the unknown, and the realm of spirits. Thus, targeting the left shoulder is a direct attempt to ward off malevolent influences.

The act of throwing salt itself is symbolic. The salt acts as a deterrent, a barrier, or even a weapon against negative energy. It’s thought to disrupt or “blind” the evil spirit, preventing it from bringing misfortune. This belief, passed down through generations, has its roots in ancient cultures and pre-dates any scientific explanation. It’s a testament to humanity’s enduring fascination with the unseen forces that shape our lives.

While we may now understand the physical properties of salt, this superstition reminds us of the power of symbolism and the enduring human desire to control our destiny. Whether you believe in the devil lurking over your shoulder or simply appreciate the rich tapestry of folklore, throwing salt over your left shoulder is a small, yet intriguing, act of metaphysical tradition.

Do you throw salt over your left shoulder when you spill it? Are there other superstitions you follow? Share in the comments.

With love and light and a pinch of salt over your left shoulder ❤

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