The Origins of Common Superstitions
Many of the little Common Superstitions we treat as fact have surprisingly ancient origins. Take Friday the 13th for example – who hasn’t nervously eyed the calendar on that date? But where did this superstition really begin? Let me share some of the curious tales behind our cultural customs.
The Tradition of the Thirteenth Floor
That unlucky date’s root may trace back to two seemingly unrelated events. Christians mark Good Friday as the day Christ died, giving Fridays an ominous air. Meanwhile, thirteen folk were gathered for the final fellowship before His fateful fate. Over centuries, these joined in folklore. Historians also notice more hangings scheduled on Fridays, occasionally the 13th – strengthening the community conviction.
Knocking Before Entering the Forest
Buildings skip the thirteenth level not due to tension, but tradition tracing back when numerologists stressed the harmony of twelve, as hours in day and months of the year. Thirteen interrupted the symmetry, seen as an uncomfortable anomaly.
Animals as Lucky Charms
Common Superstitions: Knock before you speak poorly lest misfortune befall – isn’t that how the old saying goes? Not to simply jinx but in older eras, pagans perceived the forest as homes for spirits. A knocking entreated their goodwill, hoped to avoid wrath from the woodland watchers.
The Origins of Mirror and Black Cat Myths
Even a frog or rabbit paw thought lucky today had greater meaning once. Fertility and luck were attributes ancient peoples ascribed wild creatures. Carrying their tokens transferred that fortune to you!
The Magic of Tradition and Folklore
A Common Superstitions: Mirror myths and black cat beliefs differ by location. Yet both hint at history when reflective surfaces were luxuries and midnight felines associated with witchery. Over time and tongues, details shifted but superstitions survive.
Legends live on through lore handed down generations. Though science may solve riddles, mysteries still make life more whimsical. Is wishing on pennies harmless? Probably. But there’s magic in tradition, in fanciful stories linking people across the ages.
