Why is it customary to give an odd number of flowers

There are signs that we observe from childhood, without even thinking about their origin. One of them is the custom of giving an odd number of flowers. We know for sure that with a bouquet in which there is an even number of flowers, you can only come to a funeral. In all other cases, this is unacceptable. How did such a rule come about and why is everyone strictly observing it?

The dislike of even numbers has persisted since the time of pagan Russia. Then even numbers were associated with the end of the life cycle, death. Odd, on the contrary, symbolized endless life, prosperity and protection from evil forces. They were unstable, alive, as opposed to even, promising peace.

There is another version. According to her, the origins of dislike for an even number of colors are connected with trade. In Russia, piece goods, including flowers, have always been measured by dozens. No matter how many dozens there are, the number will always be even. When giving, they tried to get rid of this official, dull number by removing one flower.

Interestingly, the custom of giving an odd number of flowers exists only with us. In the West, no one sees anything wrong with giving four or eight roses. In Japan, it is customary to give an even bouquet to girls who have not yet found their other half. The inhabitants of the Land of the Rising Sun believe that all beings in this world have a pair and an even number of colors — this is a wish to find personal happiness.

In Georgia, girls are also given an even number of flowers. And they come to the deceased with one, three or five flowers. In Germany, they don't just give an even number of roses to their beloved, but exactly eight. For the Germans, this is a sacred, lucky number, symbolizing infinity. They believe that a bouquet of eight flowers is a wish for endless happiness and joy.

A bouquet of fresh flowers is a wonderful manifestation of feelings. But not always and not everywhere he was considered the best friend of a romantic. In the old days, there were very unusual ways to show your adoration.