Many superstitions are so deeply embedded in modern English-speaking cultures that most people either observe or feel a little uncomfortable disregarding them. Why don’t we walk under ladders? Why do we knock on wood after expressing optimism? And why is it considered bad luck to open umbrellas indoors? Superstitions are more than quirky beliefs; they’re ancient rituals passed down through centuries, shaped by fear, folklore and the mysteries of the unknown. As we move through this spooky season, let’s explore what the most common superstitions mean and where they came from.
Superstitions are the belief in supernatural causes that can lead to uncertain consequences of an action or event. Many superstitions stem from ancient times, rooted in religious or cultural practices that sought to explain natural events. According to the article The Surprising Origins of 9 Common Superstitions by Natalie Wolchover on livescience.com, the idea behind not walking under a ladder originated 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. A ladder leaning against a wall forms a triangle, and Egyptians regarded this shape as sacred. Triangles represented the trinity of the Gods, and to pass through a triangle was considered a blasphemous act in the eyes of the Egyptians.
While walking under ladders has ancient roots in Egyptian culture, other superstitions, such as the consequences behind breaking a mirror or the belief that black cats are omens, also have fascinating origins. It was the ancient Romans who first suggested the idea that breaking a mirror will bring seven years of bad luck. It was believed that the body renewed itself every seven years, hence the belief that breaking a mirror, a reflection of your soul, was bad luck for seven years. The superstition surrounding black cats, however, can be traced back to the Middle Ages when people thought that black cats were the “familiars,” or companions of witches, bringing misfortune to those they crossed. Interestingly, in countries like Japan and the UK, a black cat crossing your path is actually believed to bring good luck.
In addition to broken mirrors and black cats, certain numbers are also associated with misfortune. The fear of the number 13, known as “triskaidekaphobia,” is one of the most enduring superstitions, with a history that spans centuries. Its origins can be traced back to Norse mythology, where a well-known tale describes a dinner party attended by 12 gods. Loki, the uninvited god of mischief, arrived as the 13th guest, leading to chaos when Balder, the god of joy, was killed. His death brought suffering to the world, securing the number 13’s reputation as unlucky. This belief was later reinforced during the Christian era with the story of the Last Supper, where Judas, the disciple who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th guest at the table. The following day, Good Friday, marked the crucifixion of Jesus, further linking the number 13 with bad luck, particularly on Friday the 13th.
Despite their different origins, many superstitions are rooted in a desire to ward off misfortune or explain the unexplainable, whether it’s avoiding broken mirrors or feeling uneasy about walking under a ladder leaning against a wall. The interesting thing about superstitions is that we often believe in them despite knowing that on some level, they can’t be true. Sometimes superstitions can help relieve anxiety about the unknown and give people a sense of control over their lives. In addition to this, superstitions can potentially improve performance.
In an article by Ana Sandoiu on Medical News Today, she explains that superstitions have grown to produce people’s false sense of control over external events. Furthermore, Sandoiu references a study that found that certain gestures, like crossing your fingers or saying “break a leg,” actually enhanced participants’ performance. Those who engaged in these superstitious behaviors boosted their confidence, which, in turn, led to better results.
Superstitions continue to influence our behavior and culture in subtle but significant ways. Rooted in ancient beliefs and shaped by centuries of folklore, these traditions persist because they fulfill a psychological need for control in an unpredictable world. Whether it’s avoiding black cats, feeling uneasy about walking under ladders or dreading Friday the 13th, superstitions provide a way to cope with the uncertainties of life. So, as we navigate this Halloween season, perhaps it’s worth reflecting on the superstitions we follow – whether for luck, out of habit or simply for fun – to consider what they reveal about the human need for comfort amidst uncertainty.
