Good morning and Happy April Fools’ Day!

After a hearty sneeze, a polite "bless you" is practically automatic for some people. But have you ever stopped to wonder where this common courtesy originated? The answer takes us on a journey through two fascinating theories, both rooted in a time when a sneeze wasn't just a bodily function, it could be a doorway to danger.

The first theory takes us back to a world steeped in superstition. In many cultures, the soul wasn't seen as an intangible essence, but rather a tangible part of the body. Sneezing, with its forceful expulsion of air, was believed to momentarily expel the soul from the body. This created a window of vulnerability, leaving the person susceptible to evil spirits or even death.

Saying "bless you," often phrased as "God bless you," became a way to ward off these unseen threats. The blessing acted as a shield, protecting the sneezer's exposed soul and ensuring its safe return to the body.

The second theory brings us closer to historical reality. The bubonic plague, a devastating disease that swept through Europe in the Middle Ages, often began with flu-like symptoms, including sneezing. Given the high mortality rate, people understandably feared a sneeze as a potential harbinger of illness.

In this context, "bless you" served a different purpose. It became a way to acknowledge the potential danger of a sneeze and offer well wishes for the sneezer's health. The blessing wasn't necessarily about protecting a soul from the devil, but rather a kind gesture hoping to ward off the very real threat of disease.

While the exact origin remains debated, both theories highlight the historical connection between sneezing and vulnerability. Today, "bless you" is less about superstition or illness and more about a polite social response. It acknowledges the sneeze and expresses well wishes for the person's health.

I hope you have a fantastic week!