Looking for a bit of good fortune? Who isn’t! While many of us claim to be skeptical of superstitions, the truth is we often engage in them without realizing it. Many of these quirky habits are inherited from family and friends—like crossing fingers or knocking on wood. Other beliefs, such as the idea that broken mirrors bring bad luck, are so rare that when they happen, we can’t help but feel anxious. If you’ve ever cautiously transported a mirror during a move, you were likely trying to avoid “tempting fate,” even if you didn’t say it out loud.
You’re not alone in your superstitions. A Statista poll from 2019 revealed that only 35 percent of Americans confidently stated they weren’t superstitious. This means about 65 percent of people fall somewhere on the superstition spectrum, with some uncertain about where they fit (five percent). We all recognize that these beliefs might not be grounded in logic, yet with a world filled with eerie movies and games showing the consequences of tempting fate, it’s hard not to feel a bit superstitious.
Even if you strive to avoid negativity, the feeling that misfortune lurks nearby can still be present. Sometimes, addressing these fears can lessen their grip. So, let’s explore some of the most prevalent superstitions. Just keep in mind the wise words from Practical Magic: “Curses only have power when you believe in them.”
Superstitions Linked to Bad Luck
- Black Cat Crossing Your Path
This superstition relates back to the belief that witches kept black cats as companions. In the Middle Ages, encountering a black cat was seen as an ominous sign. Sadly, this belief contributes to lower adoption rates for these fantastic felines. Let’s dispel the myth—black cats are wonderful! - Walking Under a Ladder
While avoiding an open ladder seems practical (nobody wants paint splattered on them), there’s more to it. Ancient cultures viewed the triangle formed by a ladder as a symbol of life, and passing through it was thought to invite misfortune. - Broken Mirror
Many cultures believe that mirrors reflect the soul. Thus, breaking one could lead to dire consequences. To reverse your luck, simply gather the shards and bury them under the moonlight. - Friday the 13th
This day has long been considered unlucky, possibly tracing back to Christian beliefs. Judas, the betrayer of Jesus, was the thirteenth guest at the Last Supper, and Jesus was crucified on a Friday. - Opening an Umbrella Indoors
The abrupt action of opening an umbrella inside is thought to provoke bad luck. Some also believe it disrespects the sun, as umbrellas are seen as magical items that protect us from its rays. - Step on a Crack, Break Your Mama’s Back
This old saying stems from the belief that cracks in the ground are gateways to other realms, tempting evil spirits. Stepping on one could result in hurting someone you love.
Superstitions Associated with Good Luck
- Tossing Spilled Salt Over Your Shoulder
Spilling salt is commonly seen as bad luck. However, tossing a pinch over your left shoulder is believed to counteract this misfortune. Historically, salt was a valuable commodity, and spilling it was thought to attract mischievous spirits. - Itchy Palm
An itchy palm signifies an upcoming financial gain, as it indicates you’re about to receive money. Just remember: scratching it can bring bad luck. - Knocking on Wood
This act is often seen as a way to ward off misfortune. It dates back to times when people believed spirits dwelled in trees, and knocking was a way to seek their favor. - Lucky Pennies
Finding a penny is often viewed as a sign of good luck, especially if it’s heads up. If tails is facing up, flip it over for the next person! - Rabbit’s Foot
A rabbit’s foot was thought to bring good fortune due to the animal’s ability to burrow and connect with the divine. - Inside Out Clothes
In Russian folklore, wearing clothes inside out invites trouble. To ward off misfortune, fix it and have a friend lightly tap your shoulder. - Mixing Beer
In Czech culture, pouring one beer into another is seen as bad luck, as it invites negative energy. - Beware of Tuesdays
In many Latin American cultures, Tuesdays are considered unlucky for events like marriages or journeys. - Don’t Stand Your Chopsticks in Your Food
In Japan, this act is seen as a bad omen, resembling a funeral rite. - Never Say “Happy Birthday” Too Early
In Russia, wishing someone a happy birthday before their actual day is believed to bring bad luck. - Avoid Facing Your Mirrors Toward Each Other
According to Mexican legend, this could create a portal for evil to enter. - Keys and Tables
In Sweden, placing keys on a table is associated with inviting trouble. - No Complimenting
In Serbia, praising a newborn is thought to bring misfortune, so it’s better to call them less flattering names.
Additional Common Superstitions
- Entering through a different door than you exited brings bad luck.
- Crossing your fingers is a sign of good fortune.
- The number four (except for four-leaf clovers) is seen as unlucky.
- Yellow flowers are considered a bad omen.
- Sweeping over someone’s feet brings misfortune.
- Finding a horseshoe is deemed lucky.
- The number 17 is unlucky in Italian culture.
- The number 39 is viewed negatively in Afghanistan.
- The number 666 is associated with bad luck.
- Ignoring a chain letter is thought to bring misfortune.
- Gifting a clock in Chinese culture is seen as unlucky.
- Hanging a horseshoe upside down invites bad luck.
- Mentioning “Macbeth” in theatre circles is considered unlucky.
- Pointing at a rainbow is thought to bring misfortune.
- Throwing rocks into the wind invites bad luck.
- A coyote crossing your path signals bad luck.
- An owl flying overhead is also seen as an omen of misfortune.
- Spotting ravens, crows, or magpies is considered unlucky.
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Summary
Superstitions are a fascinating part of human culture, often tied to historical beliefs and societal norms. From black cats to lucky pennies, these traditions can sometimes influence our behavior without us realizing. Whether you consider yourself superstitious or not, exploring these beliefs can be an engaging way to connect with history and the collective psyche.
Keyphrase: Common Superstitions
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