Why do turkish people pour water behind departing cars?

If you live in a neighborhood with a strong Turkish community, like Enfield or Haringey, you may have witnessed a curious sight: a family standing on the pavement, waving goodbye to a car, and then suddenly tipping a bucket or glass of water onto the road as the vehicle drives away.

To a passerby in Islington, it might look like a strange cleaning habit. But to a Turkish person, this is a beautiful, ancient ritual known as the "Water Farewell" (Su Gibi Git, Su Gibi Gel).

The Meaning: "Go Like Water, Return Like Water"

The phrase whispered during this act is "Su gibi git, su gibi gel." In Turkish culture, water represents flow, purity, and ease. By pouring water behind someone starting a journey—whether they are driving to Heathrow for a holiday or moving to a new flat in Hackney—the family is making a symbolic prayer.

They are wishing that the traveler’s journey is:

• Smooth: Without any "bumps" or accidents.

• Fast: Moving quickly and without delay, just like a flowing stream.

• Safe: Returning home just as pure and healthy as when they left.

An Ancient Shamanic Root

While Turkey is a modern country, many of its traditions, like the "Water Farewell," actually date back thousands of years to ancient Turkic shamanic beliefs. In these cultures, water was considered a sacred element with a soul. Even today, in the middle of a busy London street, this ancient connection to nature remains alive.

Why it resonates in the UK

For the Turkish community living in the UK, journeys carry a lot of weight. Whether it is the yearly trip back to the homeland or a child leaving for university in another part of the country, the "Water Farewell" provides a moment of comfort.

It is a way of saying, "I cannot go with you, but my good wishes will flow behind you." It turns the sadness of a goodbye into a hopeful ritual for a safe return.

More than just a bucket of water

In more traditional settings, you might see a decorated copper jug used for this ritual. In modern Barnet or Camden, it’s often just a simple glass of water grabbed from the kitchen. The tool doesn't matter; it’s the intention that counts.

A Lesson in Mindfulness

In the fast-paced rush of London life, where we often say goodbye with a quick text or a wave, the "Water Farewell" forces us to pause. It reminds us that every journey is significant and that the safety of our loved ones is worth a moment of reflection.