The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #114361   Message #2439613
Posted By: Amos
13-Sep-08 - 09:04 PM
Thread Name: BS: When did 'forbid' become 'forfend'?
Subject: RE: BS: When did 'forbid' become 'forfend'?
THey are two different words altogether, and "forfend" has been around since the 15th century. It means to ward off, rather than to mandate against. Heaven forfending bad luck is providential, while Heaven forbidding something is more intercessory, like the patriarchal and interfering God icon of some sects is wont to do.

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