When someone sneezes, it’s almost automatic in many English-speaking cultures, particularly in the United States, to respond with “Bless you!” or “God bless you.” This common reaction might seem simple politeness, but its roots are surprisingly deep and steeped in history. Have you ever stopped to wonder why we say this peculiar phrase?
The exact origins of saying “bless you” after a sneeze are shrouded in some mystery, with several compelling theories attempting to explain this widespread custom. Let’s delve into some of the most prominent explanations for this seemingly odd, yet ubiquitous, phrase.
One popular theory traces the custom back to ancient beliefs about the very act of sneezing. In times when medical understanding was limited, a sneeze was often perceived as more than just a bodily function. Some cultures believed that a sneeze could expel one’s soul from their body. Saying “God bless you” was thought to act as a protective charm, preventing the devil or evil spirits from snatching the newly vulnerable soul that had just been ejected. In this context, “Bless you” served as a form of spiritual safeguarding against unseen forces.
Another widely cited origin story links the phrase to the devastating bubonic plague that swept through Europe in the 14th century. This pandemic, also known as the Black Death, was incredibly deadly, and sneezing was one of the symptoms associated with the disease. During this terrifying period, a sneeze could be an ominous sign, potentially indicating the onset of a fatal illness. It’s believed that Pope Gregory I, during an earlier plague in the 6th century, ordered “God bless you” to be said to those who sneezed in hopes that it would ward off the disease or at least offer a blessing to someone who might be facing death. Thus, “God bless you” could have originated as a prayer for health and survival during times of widespread illness.
While these historical explanations offer fascinating insights into the possible beginnings of the phrase, the primary reason “bless you” persists today is likely due to simple politeness. Over centuries, the phrase has evolved into a customary social reflex. It’s now largely considered the polite and considerate thing to say when someone sneezes, regardless of any lingering beliefs about souls or plagues. It’s a verbal acknowledgment of the sneeze and a minor social nicety.
Interestingly, in some parts of America, you might also hear “Gesundheit” in response to a sneeze. This word, borrowed from German, directly translates to “health.” Its presence in American English is a result of German immigration to the United States. Many English speakers who use “Gesundheit” are often unaware of its German origin or its literal meaning, simply understanding it as another acceptable alternative to “bless you.”
So, the next time you sneeze or hear someone else sneeze and instinctively say or hear “bless you,” remember the rich and varied history behind this simple phrase. From ancient soul-saving beliefs to medieval plague prayers, and finally to modern-day manners, saying “bless you” is a small phrase with a surprisingly big story.
