Inspired by the upcoming Halloween season, here are 15 unlucky superstitions from diverse corners of the globe that have been passed down through generations, shaping how people navigate life, luck, and the unknown. From black cats to broken mirrors, each superstition carries its own unique tale and cultural significance. Get ready to uncover the stories and customs that have woven superstition into the tapestry of our world.
Breaking a Mirror
Breaking a mirror is one of the more popular superstitions. It is believed to bring seven years of bad luck in many cultures.
Walking Under a Ladder
In Western cultures, walking under a ladder is considered unlucky. This could be due to its resemblance to a triangular structure, representing a symbol of the Holy Trinity.
Black Cats
Another popular superstition in Western cultures, black cats are often associated with bad luck, especially if one crosses your path.
Number 13
The number 13 is considered an unlucky number in many countries around the world. There is even a name for the fear of the number: triskaidekaphobia!
Friday the 13th
Combining the unluckiness of Friday and the number 13, Friday the 13th is considered a particularly unlucky day.
Opening an Umbrella Indoors
Have you ever been warned not to open an umbrella whilst you are still in the house? Superstition is the reason. Many believe that opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck.
Knocking on Wood
In the West, wherever someone shares a wish or makes a hopeful statement, they may promptly knock on wood, or pass the phrase, “Touch wood”. This is believed to ward off any bad luck that could thwart efforts to make that wish become reality.
Sweeping at Night
In some Asian cultures, sweeping at night is thought to sweep away good luck and wealth. Sounds like a good enough reason to skip housework in the evening, and put your feet up!
Whistling at Night
In Russian, Turkish, and some other Eastern cultures, whistling at night is believed to attract evil spirits or bad luck. Best keep whistling a tune to the hours of daylight!
Breaking a Chopstick
Breaking a chopstick is considered a bad omen in Korean superstition.
Seeing an Owl During the Day
Many Native American cultures believe that seeing an owl during the day is a sign of impending death or bad luck.
Stepping on a Crack
According to the popular childhood rhyme, “Step on a crack, break your mother’s back.” This line refers to a superstition originating from African and European folklore. Previously, it was believed that any cracks on the ground were portals to the supernatural realm, and therefore walking over them should be avoided.
Unlucky Colors
In Chinese culture, white and black are associated with death and mourning, and wearing these colors during festive occasions is considered unlucky.
Salt Superstitions
Spilling salt is believed to bring bad luck. However, according to some cultures, tossing a pinch of salt over your left shoulder can counteract it.
Leaving A Hat on the Bed
Many superstitions are associated with hats, and several are now being modified into manners and etiquette rules. For example, a hat left on a bed is bad luck and foretells a household quarrel before the day ends. At worst, it’s a premonition of injury or death.
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