I just came across an eyelet motif in a pattern for a baby's sweater. 
It said in Eastern Europe this motif was thought to protect the child
from sickness.

I am wondering if there exists other folklore in knitting patterns
that have specific meanings?

I mean the more esoteric ones, as opposed to the obvious hearts and
flowers, etc, etc

anyone?

* * *

The eye is protective symbol against evil in a big part of the world,
perhaps the Islamic part, although I don't think it can be justified
tenets of the religion.

In Turkey, glass "eyes", blue with a white center, can be found in all
sizes, from that of a large bead to the size of one's hand.  People
hang them on their rearview mirrors, give them to people for a new
car, they come with safety pins to fasten to clothing, etc., etc. 
Eyes can be found painted on the bows of boats, virtually anywhere.
So it is not at all unusual to find an "eye" motif in the knitting
pattern for a child's sweater from Eastern Europe.  The Turks and
other Muslims invaded the area and controlled parts for hundreds of
years.

There is also a stylized amulet that appears in Muslim designs,
usually a flat triange with things hanging from the long edge.  I
can't envision it as knitting pattern at the moment, but maybe it is.

If you come across a five-pointed star motif, it is probably also a magic symbol.

Myoarin brings back memories of my trip to Turkey. The place is
covered by "the evil eye." Morocco is, too.

hmmm, interesting . . .