We say "God bless you" after a sneeze due to a mix of historical beliefs and superstitions.
Historical Context
The phrase's origins are not entirely clear, but it's thought to stem from a time when people had different understandings of health and the human body:
- Belief in Evil Spirits: It was believed that a sneeze could expel evil spirits from the body. The blessing was intended to prevent these spirits from re-entering. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) International Students Office found this is a theory on the phrase's origin.
- Bubonic Plague: Some theories suggest the phrase originated during the 14th-century bubonic plague in Europe. A sneeze was a sign of the plague and could lead to a quick death. Thus, "God bless you" was a way to wish the person well.
Summary of the Origins
| Origin | Description |
|---|---|
| Expelling Evil Spirits | Sneezing was thought to be a way to expel evil spirits, and the blessing was meant to ensure they didn't return. |
| Fear of the Bubonic Plague | The phrase may have originated during the Bubonic plague. Sneezing was a sign of the disease, and “God bless you” was a way to hope for well-being. |
Modern Usage
While we understand sneezing medically nowadays, the tradition of saying “God bless you” or a similar phrase has continued. It has become a common courtesy.
- Common Courtesy: The phrase is now largely a social custom, a way to acknowledge the sneeze and show good will.
- Across Cultures: Many cultures have their own version of this tradition.
In conclusion, the phrase "God bless you" after a sneeze is a blend of historical beliefs regarding health, evil spirits, and now, a commonplace courtesy. The phrase has transitioned over time from a protective blessing to a general social norm.
