User:Orchidsvb/Where did "God Bless you" when a person sneezes come from

Where did "God Bless you" when a person sneezes come from? Is it a superstition, which would not be a morally correct thing to say according to the Bible, as God's word does not believe in such things as magic or superstitions, He beleives these things are of evil and obviosly we should turn away from evil. Anyone know of any history on when and how this phrase originated? I was taught it was a polite thing to say,,,,

These are a few comments I found in wikipedia, for whatever it is worth: "I've always heard the explanation that mercurial offered about the superstition that soul briefly leaves the body during a sneeze, and "bless you" was a way of offering a bit of protection to the sneezer until they "caught their breath", thus restoring their soul to its rightful place."

"I never say "Bless you". I say "Gesundheit"."

I personally say Gesundheit, because everywhere I've lived it's considered polite to say something, but I'm uncomfortable blessing people. Gesundheit might also have religious meaning, but usually neither person is really aware of it."

"Gesundheit is German for "health." No religious connotation at all, which is why I use it.And I agree with your daughter, saying "Bless you" is silly."

I would appreciate any feedback that others may have researched. Thanks!(: orchidsvb@yahoo.com