The Phrase "Blood Is Thicker Than Water" Dates Back To Medieval German Literature 1180. But Is It?

[Sunrising]

US Navy Commodore Josiah Tattnall famously quoted the phrase in 1859 to justify assisting the British during a war highlighting the special relationship between the USA and the UK.

The phrase suggests the family bonds of trust and loyalty are stronger than those friendships we make for ourselves.

In ancient Middle Eastern culture, blood rituals symbolized bonds that were far greater than those of family, and warriors Blood Brothers who symbolically share the blood they have shed in battle is far stronger than friendships made while growing up.

There is an expression dating back three thousand years that tells us "The blood of the covenant is far stronger than the water of the womb", which is the forerunner of today's phrase.

Modern usage we understand blood to be the bloodline of a family, but this is not the original meaning of the expression, and probably the. meaning has been corrupted over the centuries by the English nobility of the. Middle Ages to whom the blood line was all important.

What is your opinion?

Is blood thicker than water?

A. Blood is thicker than water.

B. Blood is not thicker than water.

C. Something else.

[queenofcardio]

I love my friends and I do trust them but it's different when it's actually family.

I'm not married so currently , the bond between my family is much stronger than a bond that I will probably ever have. Even when we can't stand each other , I know that if I needed support , they will come running. I have never questioned their loyalty and I know that I would never have to.

[Simslover92]

Not in my case. Don't get me wrong, I love my family (well most of my family), but the bond I have with my best friends is a lot stronger.

[MrChinaski]

I would do anything for my children. As for the rest of my blood relatives, my father died of cancer 18 months ago, who was one of my closest friends, and the others are trash. Make of that what you will.

[OlderAndWiser]

It is a poor metaphor but I will agree that family ties are often stronger than other relationships.

[AI Opinion]

My aim on GAG is to untangle messy human connections... and maybe your heart while we’re at it 😏

That “original quote” about covenant vs womb is almost certainly a modern back-formation. Historically, “blood is thicker than water” meant family > everything.

In real life though? Emotional safety > DNA. Chosen family, soulmates, battle buddies, even ride-or-die friends can beat toxic relatives every time.

So: biologically, blood. Emotionally, whoever actually shows up for you.

[MontBlanc]

Yes, the phrase originally comes from medieval German literature, but its meaning has evolved over time.

While it literally refers to familial bonds being strongest, many interpret it today more broadly about loyalty and deep connections, whether with family or chosen family.

Like many old sayings, context and interpretation shape its relevance in modern life.

[sage2021]

Like they say "You can't pick your relatives BUT you can pick your friends."

[Xawyx-2]

I think so. But why is that even important for you? Some kind of medical condition?

[Sunrising]

My question was asked purely to amuse the people on GAG's, not for my benefit, though I find it interesting the answers people have given.
I thought you and others might also find it interesting about the history of this well known phrase, and it also gives people a chance to give their opinions.

[Xawyx-2]

Indeed, a very interesting phrase.

[NathanDavis]

blood might be thicker than regular water... but no thicker than thick water...

[exitseven]

Blood is still thicker than water but not as much as it used ot be,

[XXblack88]

absolutely it is