This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
The phrase “drink on brudershaft” is known to most as an old gesture of friendship or sympathy, when two people — usually male and female (in the modern interpretation) — cross their hands, drink from glasses and then switch to “t”. However, behind this simple ritual is an interesting history and symbolism dating back several centuries.
Word “brudershaft” comes from German Brüderschaft, which literally means “brotherhood”. In medieval Germany, the term had the direct meaning of — concluding a “contract of brotherhood” between two people. Such a rite was accompanied by a joint drink of wine or beer, and sometimes a kiss on the cheek, which symbolized mutual trust. Over time, the ritual became less official, but retained the spirit of equality: drinking “on brudershaft” meant becoming closer, canceling formalities and addressing each other casually.
In Ukraine, this custom took root in the 18–XIX centuries under the influence of German culture. It has become an integral part of table etiquette, especially among the military, students, and urban environments. Hence the tradition of — raising glasses, intertwining hands, drinking, and then kissing — as a sign of a new acquaintance or the beginning of a friendship.
Analogues of this custom exist in other countries. For example, there is an expression in France “boire à la fraternité” (“pats for brotherhood”), and in the English-speaking world you can hear “drink to friendship” or “cheers to new friends”. However, it is the German bruderschaft with a characteristic ritual of intertwined hands that remains the most recognizable and colorful option.
Today is a phrase “drink on brudershaft” it is used not only literally. It often has the figurative value — “get closer”, “get rid of formality” or “find a common language”. And although modern manners no longer always involve the rite itself, its symbolism of friendship and trust remains alive.
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