The tradition of exchanging things has great importance in Indian culture and Vaastu Shastra. We often share many things to help our loved ones, neighbors or the needy. But do you know that according to the scriptures, exchanging some things directly from hand to hand is considered prohibited? Doing so – even unknowingly – can not only spoil personal relationships but also lead to financial troubles and anger Goddess Lakshmi.
Why is it forbidden to exchange things from hand to hand?
Vastu and astrology experts believe that every object has its own special energy field. When we give something directly to someone, we also share the flow of our positive energy with that person. If the item has negative energy or is exchanged at an inauspicious time, it can have a negative impact on our destiny.
Five things that should not be donated or exchanged directly:
Iron things: In astrology, iron is considered the metal of Lord Saturn. It is said that giving iron directly to someone has inauspicious effects of Saturn. This may increase the tension between the giver and the taker and may cause hindrances in the ongoing work.
Oil: Mustard oil is very dear to Lord Shani. Giving oil directly to someone on Saturday is considered a major Vaastu defect. By doing this, Lord Shani may get angry and there may be fights in life. Oil should always be given in a vessel.
Salt: Salt absorbs negativity. It is believed that exchanging salt from hand to hand brings bitterness in relationships. If you have to give salt to someone, keep it in a vessel or on the table instead of giving it directly.
Needles and sharp objects: Direct exchange of sharp objects like needles, knives or scissors can create a rift in mutual affection. It is believed that these things can break relationships. These should always be exchanged keeping them on the table or the ground.
Footwear: Gifting shoes to someone or giving them directly from one person to another is considered inauspicious. Shoes are associated with the planet Saturn, and giving them directly to someone can have a negative impact on the financial condition of the giver.
Economic and social impact
Ignoring these rules often leads to unnecessary expenses at home. Goddess Lakshmi is considered ‘chanchal’ (unstable) and as per Vaastu, negative energy arising from wrong habits drives her away from home. Additionally, giving things directly from one person to another can introduce a sense of ego into the transaction, which is harmful to relationships.
What is the correct way?
The easiest way to avoid these problems is to not put anything directly into the other person’s hands. Instead of:
Before giving the thing, keep it in a plate, bowl or any other vessel.
If you are giving a gift, place it on a table or somewhere clean.
Trading things by keeping them on the ground is considered to be the safest way, because it does not cause direct conflict of energy.
