Hand of Glory

Posted by Lewis on September 23, 2005

In Reply to: The Good Foot posted by David Bailey on September 23, 2005

: The Good Foot - Is this phrase a creation of the Godfather of Soul (James Brown), or did he get it from somewhere else? I have heard that it might be a phrase from Tarot cards or Voodoo, but I can find no proof that it, along with several other phrases, did not arise out of the mind of Mr. James Brown.

Hands are much more common in magic than feet. The only foot I can think of is the lucky rabbit's foot.
"First Footing" is another superstition though - to bring about a good year. superstition may be a bit strong, custom or tradition might be better. In Northumberland and up - the first person across the threshold should carry a lump of coal and kiss the women of the house. we used to do it at New Year parties and all the men would go outside, the male host would get the bit of coal and the women would line up inside to await our attentions.

• First footing Shae 23/September/05
  • Celtic cross the threshold Lewis 14/October/05