Bad Luck or Good Fortune? Exploring the Fascinating History of Friday the 13th
Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day in Western superstition. It is believed to have originated from the belief that 13 is an unlucky number and Friday is an unlucky day. The combination of the two is thought to result in an especially unlucky day. Additionally, the Bible states that there were 13 people present at the Last Supper, and Jesus was crucified on a Friday. Some also believe that the fear of Friday the 13th is a form of triskaidekaphobia, which is fear of the number 13. I know how I feel about superstitions, and it is not an uncommon position to take.
Did you know that in Spain, Tuesday the 13th is considered to be a unlucky day instead of Friday. This is because Tuesday is named after the God of War, Mars, and the number 13 is associated with bad luck. So, people in Spain avoid making important decisions, planning events and starting new projects on Tuesdays the 13th.
In Italy, Friday the 17th is considered to be an unlucky day, as the numerical abbreviation of the date, “17,” when rearranged forms the word “VIXI”, which means “I have lived” in Latin, which implies that one’s life is over. This is similar to Friday the 13th in the sense that it is a day associated with bad luck and is avoided for important events or decisions.
Another interesting fact is that, the fear of Friday the 13th is called “paraskevidekatriaphobia” or “friggatriskaidekaphobia” which is derived from the Greek words “Paraskevi” (Friday), “dekatreis” (thirteen), and “phobia” (fear). The fear of Friday the 13th has led to the term “Black Friday” being used to describe the day in question. The term is thought to have originated in the late 19th century, and it has been suggested that it may be a reference to the stock market crashes that have occurred on Friday the 13th in the past.
In recent years, some people have started to celebrate Friday the 13th as an alternative to fearing it. This has led to the creation of “Friggatriskaidekaphobia Awareness Day”, a day where people are encouraged to embrace their fear and do something that scares them. Many hotels, buildings and high-rise apartment buildings in the world do not have a 13th floor, it is considered as an unlucky number. Instead, the numbers 12 and 14 are used, skipping the 13th floor altogether.
Lastly, it is said that from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, it was customary in some places for people to avoid starting any new projects or undertaking any important events on a Friday. This custom may have contributed to the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th. But, as we have seen, some people have started to celebrate it instead of fearing it. So, whether you choose to embrace your fear or simply avoid it, it’s up to you. Now that you know more about Friday the 13th, why not celebrate it by treating yourself to something special. Check out Cozy Crib Coterie for a wide variety of home goods that will help you make the most of your best and worst days.
