Knight's Blend

Knightly Cigar Rituals

Had the means existed back in the 12th Century, we can well imagine warrior Knights, returning from a hard-fought battle, doffing their armor, quickly washing away blood and grit, before assembling with their veteran comrades to recount the days perilous events over a hearty beverage and a fine cigar. And why wouldn’t they? Isn’t this something we fully expect from our modern-day heroes and champions as they celebrate a victory? Indeed!

Certainly, the reasons for enjoying a nice cigar today aren’t limited to victory laps, but also represents a set of rituals and cultural norms that extend beyond the cigar’s humble beginnings. Here’s a list of today’s top cigar traditions:

The Victory Cigar

Brought back to Spain - from the new-world - by Christopher Columbus in 1492, the Conquistadors soon adopted the Cuban native’s practice of smoking a victory cigar on the battlefield. Rumor has it that the curling smoke would lead the souls of the fallen into the afterlife and cleanse the survivors of the stench of blood and war.

Today, we don’t necessarily need to win a war to be able to enjoy a nice cigar, but a victory is a victory and lofting a good smoke-ring is a good way to take pride in job well done.

The Status Cigar

Back in the Americas, cigar-smoking became a commonplace activity for the average citizen, but in Europe, a shortage of tobacco meant that there was a premium affixed to cost of the luxurious dried leaf. As a result, the only people who could afford the cost of cigars were the royals and the wealthy.

Fast forward to the Great Depression in the USA, where only aristocrats, the elite, and celebrities could afford the pleasure of nice stogie; smoking a big cigar became synonymous with success and “having arrived.”

The New Baby Cigar

It’s likely that this tradition emanated from the great American Northwest where Indian tribes would commemorate weddings and new births with a feast whereby highly prized primitive cigars were among the items exchanged and where reciprocity was expected.

Today, new dads are only too proud to find a way to share a “high-five” for their newest family arrival. So, unlike the Indians and their “potlatch” custom, don’t need to feel that you must give something back, but rather, by just saying “thank you” and “lighting-up” you will honor the giver while also celebrating life.

The Thoughtful Cigar

This tradition is probably one of the most revered, and most enjoyed of all the cigar rituals mentioned here. Many may think this tradition is where we gather together with our friends, a flavorful cigar, a finger or two of our favorite Scotch, to tackle global concerns, propose possible solutions, and otherwise solve world problems (also known as, smoking, drinking and thinking). While this may hold truth for many, a thoughtful cigar can also mean so much more for those desiring so much less.

Anyone who enjoys a cigar in the peaceful quiet of a mid-summer dusk might agree that there is something contemplative and spiritual about a slow-smoke. And, if you are truly seeking an inner-peace that can be only be experienced amid gently rising plumes of savored bliss, then close your eyes and listen well; you may hear the ancestral voices of the indigenous, who first exhaled those puffs of rolled and dried tobacco leaf so many years ago, and capture their spirit from victory to clarity.

Article excerpts and historical data provided by cigarlifeguy.com.