10 Common Superstitions That Exist Even Today Even Though They Defy Logic

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oi-Boldsky Desk

By Boldsky Desk

Monday, January 29, 2024, 10:19

Superstitions are those beliefs that defy logic and reason and have a peculiar way of lingering in our lives despite the advancements in science and technology. Like stubborn relatives who refuse to leave after a family gathering, these superstitions persist, often sneaking into our daily routines.

In this age of information, where facts and evidence reign supreme, let's take a lighthearted journey into the world of 10 common superstitions that continue to weave their curious threads into the fabric of our modern lives.

1. Friday the 13th
The fear of Friday the 13th, known as paraskevidekatriaphobia, has deep historical roots. Some attribute it to the Last Supper where there were thirteen individuals present, and Jesus was betrayed on a Friday. This superstition has persisted, leading to the avoidance of certain activities on this day.

2. Breaking a Mirror
Breaking a mirror is said to bring seven years of bad luck. This superstition dates back to ancient civilizations, where mirrors were considered tools of divination, and breaking one was seen as a disturbance of the soul's reflection.

3. Black Cats
Black cats have been associated with superstitions for centuries. In medieval Europe, they were believed to be witches' familiars, and crossing paths with one was considered bad luck. In some cultures, however, black cats are considered symbols of good luck.

4. Walking Under a Ladder
The superstition of not walking under a ladder is believed to have originated from ancient Egyptian and Roman cultures, where a leaning ladder formed a triangle with the wall and ground - a sacred shape. Breaking the triangle was considered disrespectful to the gods.

5. Knocking on Wood
The act of knocking on wood is thought to ward off bad luck. Its origins can be traced to pagan beliefs that spirits resided in trees. By knocking on wood, people believed they were seeking protection from malevolent spirits or tempting fate.

6. Number 13
Triskaidekaphobia, the fear of the number 13, has historical roots in Norse mythology and Christianity. The Last Supper is often cited as a source of the superstition, as there were thirteen individuals present, including Judas Iscariot.

7. Horseshoe for Good Luck
Hanging a horseshoe over a doorway is a common superstition believed to bring good luck. This tradition originated from the belief that iron, from which horseshoes are made, has protective qualities against evil spirits.

8. Opening an Umbrella Indoors
The superstition of not opening an umbrella indoors has unclear origins, but it is thought to be linked to ancient Egyptian and Roman beliefs. Some believe it was related to avoiding displeasing the spirits residing in the home.

9. Spilling Salt
Spilling salt is often thought to bring bad luck, and the remedy is to throw a pinch of salt over the left shoulder. This superstition has roots in various cultural and religious beliefs, including the idea that salt was a valuable commodity and spilling it was a waste.

10. Four-Leaf Clovers
Finding a four-leaf clover is considered lucky, and this superstition has Celtic origins. The Celts believed that the clover could ward off evil spirits, and each leaf had a specific meaning - hope, faith, love, and luck.

While these superstitions have historical origins, it's essential to recognize that they are based on beliefs that lack scientific evidence. Over time, education and rational thinking have helped dispel many superstitions, but some still linger as quirky traditions or habits passed down through generations.