February Birth Bread
Birth Bread
Pretzel
The pretzel is a traditional German bread with a distinctive twisted shape, believed to have originated in Christian monasteries in the early 7th century. Its form represents a monk crossing their arms in prayer, with the three holes symbolizing the Trinity. The coarse salt sprinkled on its surface has been considered to possess purifying and protective powers since ancient times, serving to ward off evil spirits and cleanse the mind and body. Since the 16th century, salted pretzels became mainstream, and in Germany, they became so beloved that they serve as the emblem of bakeries. Despite its seemingly complex shape, the pretzel is made from simple ingredients, symbolizing harmony that binds opposing elements and is believed to possess the power to untangle difficult situations and deepen human connections.
Features
- Has a distinctive twisted knot shape with three holes
- Salted bread with coarse salt sprinkled on the surface
- Religious background originating from Christian monasteries
- Used as the emblem of German bakeries
- Simple rustic flavor made from basic ingredients
Personality
- Appears complex but has a simple and pure heart
- Mediator-like temperament that harmonizes opposing elements
- Patience to remain calm even in difficult situations
- Sociability that enjoys being a bridge connecting people
- Flexibility to adapt to modern times while respecting tradition
Symbolic Meaning
- Symbolizes prayer and faith, representing the Trinity
- Power of bonds and connections, enduring relationships
- Purification and protection through salt's evil-warding effects
- Essential simplicity within complexity
- Symbol of harmony that integrates conflict and contradiction
Reason for Selection
- Season when Setsubun's evil spirit cleansing resonates with salt's purifying power
- Shape reminiscent of lovers embracing on Valentine's Day
- Expresses complex emotions during the transition from winter to spring
- Harmonizes with February's climate where cold and warmth intersect
- Time to deepen bonds with others toward new beginnings
Protection & Effects
- Power to unravel difficult situations and complex problems
- Protection that strengthens human relationships and deepens bonds
- Evil spirit cleansing and mind-body purification through salt
- Blessing that brings harmony to conflicting emotions and situations
- Balance of traditional wisdom and modern adaptability
Trials & Growth
- Tendency to overthink and lose sight of the essence
- Takes time to sort out tangled relationships and emotions
- Possibility of delayed action due to seeking perfect harmony
- Mental burden accompanying the integration of opposing elements
- Difficulty in balancing tradition and innovation