Why do we say ‘white rabbits’ on the first day of the month? – The Sun

THE first thing to do on the first day of the month is say "white rabbit" and follow it with a 'pinch punch'.

This can lead to a month of good luck and protection from what can cause you harm.

Why do we say white rabbits on the first of the month?

Saying the words "white rabbit" on the first day of the month supposedly bring good luck.

Many people will say "rabbit rabbit" when they wake up on the first, before uttering anything else to bring luck for the rest of the month.

Rabbits are considered lucky animals, with a rabbit's foot often held for good luck in many countries.

Where did the white rabbits phrase come from?

The quote dates back to 1909 when “White rabbits, white rabbits” was recorded in the Notes and Queries book.

The quote reads: "My two daughters are in the habit of saying 'Rabbits!' on the first day of each month.

"The word must be spoken aloud, and be the first word said in the month.

“It brings luck for that month. Other children, I find, use the same formula."

According to the playground rules, a pinch and a punch needs to be followed immediately with the words, "White rabbits, no return" – so that you can't be pinched back.

Some claim that the term was widely used among RAF bomber aircrew during WWII, who would say "white rabbits" to protect themselves when they woke up.

 

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Why do we say 'pinch punch' on the first day of the month?

For age old superstitions, it can be hard to pinpoint the true origin, so for 'pinch punch' there are several theories.

Back in old England times, many people believed in witches and banishing them was very important.

Salt was thought to be a weakness of witches – so the pinch part is the pinching of the salt, and the punch part was to banish the witch.

It might have been a ritual to keep away witches, monthly or otherwise.

Alternatively, a theory from across the pond involves the first US President George Washington.

When he was president, he reportedly met local Indian tribes on the first day of each month and would supply fruit punch with an added pinch of salt.

This became known as “pinch and punch on the first of the month".

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