Superstitions connected with bodily activities - Cutting Nails & Hair

Interesting Myths and Superstitions around the world Part VI

CUTTING NAILS & HAIRS

• The paring of nails has given rise to some strange beliefs. So also has the cutting of hair. 

• Sailors believe that to cut the nails or hair during calm will provoke contrary winds. They, therefore, only cut them in a storm. 

• The ancients declared that nails and hair should not be pared or cut when in the presence of the gods, but in the secrecy of one's home. 

• Among the Arabians it is considered lucky to cut the nails and hair on Friday. 

• In some countries it is considered unlucky to cut a child's nails till it is a year old. 

• In Scotland it is believed that if a child's nails are cut before it is a year old, it will grow up to be a thief. In other lands, it is thought the child will stammer. 

• The Jews bum their nail parings with a piece of wood, as a species of offering to insure good luck.

Source: Omens, Signs & Superstitions book