Unbelievable Greek Superstitions You Have To Know

In the heart of Aotearoa, not many would be acquainted with the charming tradition surrounding koufeta, those delightful sugared almonds cherished in Grecian wedding ceremonies. A bite into a koufeta connects you instantly with centuries-old Hellenic beliefs.

The almond’s egg-like contour symbolises fertility and the dawning of a shared life post-wedding. The hard shell resonates with the trials and resilience of married life, whilst the sugary coat promises a future sprinkled with sweet moments.

There’s little doubt that koufeta entices patrons with its promise of succulent flavours. Kouefta is not the kind of candy you’ll see in a typical shop; it’s not a KitKat or the type of sweet you’ll see in games like Candy Crush or Sweet Bonanza slot. It’s unique.

The allure of koufeta lies in its magical potential. Here’s a whimsical twist for all the single ladies out there: by tucking a wee bag of koufeta from a wedding under your pillow, the old Greek lore promises you’ll dream of your future bloke that very night.

So, whether you’re spinning reels or nodding off with almonds under your pillow, there’s always an element of delightful unpredictability waiting. Why not give this age-old Greek tradition a whirl? You might just find yourself dancing through a dream with your destined fella or hitting the jackpot unexpectedly.

Stolen Greens Grow Well 

In the lush landscapes of Greece, there’s an age-old gardening lore that might just tickle your fancy. With their deep connection to the land, Kiwis might find this belief both intriguing and a tad cheeky.

Whisper it quietly amongst green thumbs: for a plant cutting to truly thrive, it has to be stolen.

That’s right – no amount of water, sunlight, or love can match the secret vigour bestowed upon a discreetly snipped, unauthorised snip. Ask a Greek plant enthusiast for a cutting; they might wink and advise you to sneak back later for a little clandestine pruning.

Now, should you consider presenting a cutting from your ill-gotten botanical loot? Think twice! Handing over a piece of a purloined plant is believed to spell doom for the donor’s verdant buddy. Instead, let that covertly acquired cutting strike roots in your garden, soaking up the secret thrill of its acquisition.

These little quirks, like the sacred reverence for bread or the allure of stolen cuttings, add a sprinkle of magic to everyday Greek life. Embrace it, and maybe, just maybe, your garden will flourish in ways you’d never imagined.

The Enchanted Protections of the Greek Filaxta

Steeped in the rich tapestry of the Greek tradition is the Filaxta, captivating charms known to repel unwelcome gazes. These aren’t just any trinkets; they’re cultural artefacts often adorning the outfits of little ones or discreetly tucked into the belongings of the elderly.

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The Greek Orthodox Church, referring to them as Baskania checking, brings faith and magic together. These petite sachets, often adorned with intricate beadwork or the sacred cross, conceal treasures within. Imagine cotton steeped in divine oil blessed by a priest, or fragments of olive branches and basil, carrying the echoes of sacred rituals.

These charms are more than just protective; they’re a symbol of Greek history, spirituality, and an enduring belief in the mystical.

Behold the Evil Eye Mati 

The concept of the evil eye transcends many cultures, but in Greece, it’s known as the Mati. This isn’t just a mere look; it’s a nasty glare steeped in ill intent. The Mati can be unwittingly bestowed through envy, spite, or even the unexpected aftermath of a mere compliment. The repercussions? They range from the trivial, like nagging headaches, to a cascade of misfortunes or, in dire circumstances, even death.

But Greeks are not without their shields. The iconic Mati charm, resembling a vivid blue eye, is their chosen amulet. Interestingly, a whisper in some Greek corners suggests that those with blue or green eyes possess a heightened potency in casting this curse. Hence, the protective emblem mirrors this very hue.

Beyond charms, Greeks have cultivated a palette of protective measures. A trifecta of spits, a dash of salt over one’s shoulder, or even the potent aroma of garlic are among their arsenal. If caught off-guard without a clove at hand, chanting skorda, the Greek for garlic, thrice will suffice, especially post a compliment.

But what if Mati’s shadow descends? Typically, one would turn to the wisdom of elderly women—be it a yiayia, mother, or thea. Their whispered prayers to the Virgin Mary, infused with intent, are believed to dissolve the shroud of the Mati. So says the legend, what do you believe?