Throughout history, the hearth was often considered not only the source of warmth and cooking, but the very heart of the home. As such, many superstitions rose up around the hearth. In Irish folklore, it is thought that a burning fire in the hearth was a sign of hospitality and it is said it is best to sweep away any dead embers to avoid bad luck.
The fire itself was used for divination such as if a fire flares suddenly, it is said to be a sign of guests to arrive shortly. If a fire burns only on one side, a wedding will soon happen, or someone will soon depart. It is advised never to have two people light a fire together as it will engender a quarrel.
At Christmas and New Year, including Scottish Hogmanay, it is believed that lighting a fire will burn away last year's troubles and attract good fortune in the coming year. In England, protective charms such as horse shoes are placed under the hearth to ward off evil. It is considered essential to carefully tend a fire as it represents the luck you will have in the following year.
Comentarios