Giving Knives as a Gift

Someone told me I should not give a set of knives as a gift. Is this halacha?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question!

Indeed, there is a lesser-known custom not to give a knife as a gift. The reason for this is based on the teaching that iron (metal) represents death and warfare, a knife is an especially good example of this. Also, due to the connection between iron and warfare, it was forbidden to use iron. For this reason, it was forbidden to use iron tools in the construction of the Beit Hamikdash. One should even avoiding bringing a knife into a synagogue sanctuary.

Those who follow Breslov Chassidus are especially hesitant to give a knife as a gift. This is based on Rebbe Nachman’s teaching, in the name of the Baal Shem Tov, that “a knife should not be given as a gift, which means one should not give his friend a knife for a gift.” No further information or explanation is offered but it is likely due to the warfare comparison mentioned above. A gift is meant to arouse feelings of affection, and giving a symbol of warfare as a gift doesn’t set that time.

Some suggest that one who wants to give a knife as a gift should give something else along with it as well, in order to “neutralize” any negative effects that might be aroused.

Allow me to make it clear that not giving a knife as a gift is only a custom of some. There is no such ban in any of the halachic codes and therefor it is completely permissible to do so. This is especially true when the knife is mitzva-related such as giving a new knife as a gift to a mohel or shochet.

See Shemot 20:22; Devarim 27:5; Middot 3:4; OC 151:6; Kol Bo 17; Sichot Haran 9.