Society might consider superstitions as extensions of ancient traditions and beliefs from our culture. Even today, certain beliefs that seem strange for modernity still influence our behaviors and determine the way we perceive luck and happiness in life. While these superstitions could sound silly to some, for others they are actually terrifying.
As science has advanced, faith in superstitions has generally decreased. But that doesn’t mean these beliefs have vanished from the culture. In this article, we will discuss 5 of the most famous superstitions that exist around the world.
1. Fingers Crossed
It’s hard to think of a superstition that is more common than crossing your fingers for good luck. Nowadays, people almost do it instinctively when they’re rooting for a positive outcome. But there was a time when crossing your fingers was actually a superstition instead of just a random good-luck gesture.
In fact, this superstition originated in Western Europe before Christianity, in the Pagan period. The attempt was to create a cross with your own fingers, which evolved as time passed. It used to be done with two index fingers at first, using both hands, but later until now, people use their index and middle fingers of the same hand.
Even today, many individuals cross their fingers while placing bets or hoping for financial success. And while luck might be unpredictable, this list of best no deposit bonuses UK 2025 is indeed a safe way for players to test their luck.
2. Broken Mirror
The superstition of broken mirrors comes from ancient Greek and Roman beliefs. The thought of the power of mirrors that observe everything, including people’s souls, has played a big part in this myth. This is reflected in Greek legend about Narcissus as well, who was obsessed with his own image.
The Romans believed that only terrible health could cause breaking the mirror and if this happened, you’d be unlucky for the next 7 years of your life. This is also connected to the idea that the number 7 itself is unlucky. To prevent the unfortunate years, Romans would bury the broken glass pieces during moonlight.
3. Black Cats
Black cats used to be associated with luck and fortune and they were even worshiped by ancient Egyptians. However, this statement changed during the dark period of 13th-century Europe. Society started to associate black cats with the devil as Pope Gregory IX decided so.
The superstition got worse in the Middle Ages when people started to burn black cats and involve them in dark rituals on several occasions. Black cats were used to practice witchcraft as well. Sadly, black cats have carried an aura of misfortune ever since and the color black became the symbol of evil.
4. Curse of The Evil Eye
The curse of the evil eye had been existing for a very long time. It descended from the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and South Asian traditions. According to the beliefs, if you achieve a lot of success in life, this could make the gods angry and they would mess with your fortune.
To prevent this from happening, people would wear amulets shaped in the eye, which supposedly protect from “getting an evil eye.” This superstition is still common in some Asian countries and you might see many evil eye amulets around for sure.
5. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Throwing salt over your shoulder is mostly common in Christian countries across Europe. Its origins date back to ancient Roman culture, where salt was not just a seasoning but a symbol of purity and protection. You can notice in the painting of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci that Judas, who betrayed Jesus, spilled water by accident.
This is why when someone spills salt, it needs to be thrown away over the left shoulder. The point is to make “the devil” go away by throwing salt. It is also mentioned that because of the value of salt in ancient Rome, this action had the meaning of bringing luck and fortune.
Bottom Line
As odd as it can be, various superstitions still exist today. Despite being old myths, now you know that a lot of strange beliefs are still quite common. We can’t certainly say whether these superstitions are true or not, but faith is an interesting thing and numerous people continue to follow these beliefs just to avoid any kind of trouble.
Nevertheless, these 5 superstitions are the most popular around the world that are believed to be true. For those who try hard to have a good life without unlucky situations, they are something to be considered looking into.
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