Friday the 13th: Superstition or Reality? Unraveling the Truth Behind the Superstition
Friday the 13th: why is Friday the 13th considered unlucky, and where did this superstition come from
How many of you can relate to 'Friday the 13th'? Well, honestly speaking, I can relate to this a lot as studying in a boarding school you get to learn some most spooky stories in your childhood. I have heard one too which is that something usually happens whenever it is 'Friday the 13'.
For the unversed, it's a day that falls on the 13th of the month and, as the name suggests, always lands on a Friday. This unusual combination occurs about once a year, and on rare occasions, it can happen up to three times in a single year. But have you wondered why is Friday the 13th considered unlucky, and where did this superstition come from?
Origin of Friday the 13th
The fear of Friday the 13th is not so different from other well-known superstitions, such as the belief that crossing paths with a black cat or breaking a mirror brings bad luck. Some people also worry about things like eye twitching.
The roots of the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th can be traced back to ancient times. One significant source of this superstition is linked to Christianity. In the Christian tradition, the number 13 gained popularity during the events of the Last Supper, where Jesus Christ and his disciples gathered for a meal on what is now known as Maundy Thursday. Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would later betray Jesus, arrived as the 13th guest. This was a crucial moment, as Jesus Christ was crucified on the following day, which is Good Friday.
Other superstitions related to Friday the 13th
Norse mythology also contributed to the superstition. In Valhalla, the hall of the gods, the number of gods gathered for a feast reached 13 when the trickster god Loki joined the party. This led to a series of unfortunate events, including the accidental killing of the god of light, joy, and kindness, Balder.
Even before the time of Jesus, the Bible contains stories that associate Friday with unfortunate events. According to biblical tradition, Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge on a Friday. Additionally, Friday is linked to other unfortunate events, such as Cain killing his brother Abel, the destruction of the Temple of Solomon, and the Great Flood when Noah's ark set sail.
Interestingly, superstitions about unlucky days and numbers can vary from one culture to another. In Italy, for instance, "heptadecaphobia," or the fear of the number 17, can lead to changes in plans. In some places like Greece, Spain, and Mexico, it's not Friday the 13th that's considered unlucky but rather Tuesday the 13th.
Well, whether you believe in the superstition of Friday the 13th or not, it's fascinating to explore the rich history and cultural differences surrounding this superstition and other similar beliefs.