Why did people used to spit on their hands before doing manual labor back in the day?

Question

Why did people used to spit on their hands before doing manual labor back in the day?

Answer 1

Water/Saliva made it easier to maintain a good friction upon the worn smooth handle.

Which would soon be followed by sweat.

Answer 2

To get a better grip. To increase friction.

Answer 3

Gross! maybe they hated themselves so much for having to do that kind of work that they felt like they needed to spit on themselves.