When someone sneezes, especially in the United States, it’s almost automatic for others to say “Bless you!” or “God bless you.” This custom, while seemingly simple, has intriguing roots and a history that stretches back centuries. While it’s a common practice in many English-speaking regions, it appears to be particularly prevalent in the US. But where did this phrase come from, and why do we say it?
Origins of “Bless You”
The exact origin of saying “bless you” after a sneeze is shrouded in some mystery, with multiple theories attempting to explain its beginnings. No single explanation is definitively confirmed, but two prominent theories offer compelling historical context.
One popular theory traces back to ancient beliefs about the significance of a sneeze. It was once thought that a sneeze could cause a person to expel their soul from their body. In this context, saying “God bless you” was seen as a form of protection, a blessing to prevent the devil from snatching the temporarily vulnerable soul. This interpretation highlights a time when sneezing was viewed with a degree of superstition and concern for spiritual well-being.
Another widely cited origin story is linked to the devastating bubonic plague that swept through Europe in the 14th century. During this period of widespread death, a sneeze was recognized as a prominent symptom of the plague. Given the high mortality rate of the Black Death and the deeply religious nature of society at the time, uttering “God bless you” may have served as a benediction, a prayer for divine help for someone exhibiting a potentially deadly symptom. It was a way to offer comfort and hope in the face of a terrifying and often fatal illness.
Modern Usage: Politeness and Custom
While these historical explanations offer fascinating insights into the potential origins of “bless you,” the primary reason for its continued use today is much simpler: politeness. Over time, the phrase has evolved into a common social courtesy. It’s now largely considered the polite and customary response when someone sneezes, regardless of any lingering belief in its literal or protective power. Saying “bless you” is generally understood as a basic gesture of good manners and social consideration.
“Gesundheit”: An Alternative Expression
Interestingly, “Bless you” isn’t the only phrase Americans might use after a sneeze. “Gesundheit,” a German word meaning “health,” is another common response. This expression entered American vernacular due to the significant waves of German immigration to the United States. Many English speakers who use “Gesundheit” are unaware of its German origins or its literal meaning, further demonstrating how language and customs can evolve and become integrated into different cultures over time. The anecdote shared by “Dana” in the original article about her mother’s confusion regarding a German magazine titled “Gesundheit” perfectly illustrates this point, highlighting the disconnect between the word’s actual meaning and its perceived use in the context of sneezing.
In conclusion, while the phrase “God bless you” after a sneeze may have originated from concerns about the soul or as a response to deadly disease, its contemporary usage is primarily driven by social etiquette. It’s a verbal reflex, a polite acknowledgement of a sneeze, and a custom deeply ingrained in American culture, with interesting historical layers beneath its surface.
