Moving is a process that occurs in different parts of the planet. In the Philippines, moving is referred as ‘lipat bahay’, which consists of different traditions that need to be carried out.

So, let’s learn more about the ‘Lipat Bahay’ tradition!

#1. Scatter Coins

According to Philippine traditions, when you are moving into a new house you should always scatter coins in the living rooms. This practice is said to bring prosperity, success and abundant wealth to a house. The coins should always be thrown into the corners of the room to depict money entering the house. However, they should never be placed in doorways as they would represent money being swept away. Later on, the coins can either be collected after a prayer ceremony is carried out, or they can also be left on the floor for a few days.

#2. Property Possession Date

Even the date of possession of the new house has a significant impact on the household’s growth. As per Filipinos, the date chosen should include a number that should end with the pen moving upwards when written. These numbers are 0, 5 and 8. These specific dates are preferred as they represent that your development and progress will go upwards instead of downwards.

#3. Sprinkle Salt

Per Filipino traditions, sprinkling salt in every room of a new house will help keep away evil spirits. It is also believed that this tradition is a method to prevent unwanted guests from visiting the house.

#4. Number of Stairs

Filipinos place a great importance on the number of steps in their homes. When deciding on the stair steps of a new house, Filipinos use the chant “Oro, plata and mata (gold, silver and death).” The rule in this tradition is that the highest stair should not end with mata as it can symbolise bad luck or disaster to anyone who uses this step. In addition, the Philippine belief prohibits someone from having 13 stairs in his or her house as the number 13 represents the number of the devil.

#5. Bread and Broom

This Filipino tradition recommends bringing a loaf of bread and a new broom while moving into a new home. This practice is said to welcome prosperity and success in a home.

But, remember that similar to the Indian culture, one should never bring an old broom into a new house as it symbolizes bad omen and negative energy!

#6. Exit and Entrance

While the Indian tradition says to enter your new house with the right foot, the Philippine custom, inspired by the old Irish tradition, says that when you are stepping into a new house, make sure to enter and exit via the same door. This superstition is practiced so as you can settle properly in your new home without any difficulties.

#7. Black Ants

Suppose you see a black ant in your brand new home, what do you usually do? Swat it, isn’t it?

However, unlike most people in the world who feel disgusted at the sight of black ants on their walls, Filipinos actually rejoice, as they believe that black ants are symbols of upcoming fortune, success and wealth in their household.

#8. No knives

A Bob Kramer knife is considered as one of the best chef’s knives. However, don’t ever gift a knife to a Filipino! Why you ask?

Filipinos believe that if they want to stay friends with someone, they should never accept knives as housewarming gits. They think that those who will give homeowners knives as gifts will undoubtedly turn into their enemies.

#9. Bloody Home

Don’t panic! It’s neither a creepy sect-like ritual nor some Halloween-prank! Instead, it refers to a practice where Filipinos bath their new house with chicken or pig blood. This ritual will scare away evil spirits that were previously present in the house. It will also provide spiritual and holy protection.

#10. Rice

And last but not least a full container of rice should be brought when stepping into the new house. This will ensure that the resident of the house has an abundance of food and fortune.

Did these traditions transport you to the Philippines? Were you able to have an insight into the ‘Lipat Bahay’ superstitions? Please share your comments!