Friday 13th
Where did we get this idea that the day of the week and month could possibly hold such power over us and why is Friday 13th seen as such an abnormally ominous day?
There is no definitive answer to that question. Pic: Getty Images
If we choose to go way back in time and attribute the 13th to a religious event, then we could say the date is considered unlucky, as in the time of the Last Supper, the 13th and last guest to arrive was none other than Judas Iscariot.
The biblical account of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden is said to have occurred on a Friday, and the crucifixion of Jesus also took place on a Friday.
Astrologically the date is seen as a day of 'Empowerment' and is said to be 'profoundly ingrained in positive symbolism of feminine power, transformation and creativity'. What exactly this might mean for women is not so clear, but take it to be a day when we can feel extra powerful and sure of ourselves. Pic: Getty Images
But the superstitions around Friday 13th continue to persist, with many people not travelling, not making decisions and some not even going outside their front door.
Before you despair entirely, there are several things you can do to try to keep bad luck from following and finding you, and the good folks at Farmers Almanac have even compiled a list of things to do including,
KNOCK ON WOOD
It was once believed that good spirits lived in trees and that by knocking on anything made from wood, we can call upon these spirits for protection against misfortune.
FIND A FOUR LEAFED CLOVER Pic: Shutterstock
Not as easy to do as you might think, these little leaves are not exactly everywhere but if you have time to spare, its a nice way to spend an hour peering into your lawn in the hopes of finding the four leafed wonder
WEAR YOUR CLOTHES INSIDE OUT
No one seems to know how this superstition originated, but the belief that wearing your clothes inside out or back to front is a superstition that still persists – Have a look at sports fans, especially in the US wearing baseball caps back to front during important games for good luck.
TAKE A WALK IN THE RAIN Pic: Shutterstock
This one should be easy for anyone living in Ireland, chances are you will get ready for a walk as the sun is shining but before you've rounded the first corner of the road, the black clouds will roll in and you will get soaked in a deluge, but don't worry, its good luck!
There are a number of other superstitions too, with unknown origins, some of which are linked to the popularity of several movies and ideas in popular culture like the horror movie 'Friday the 13th' which has also contributed hugely to the fear of the day, as it features a killer, Jason Voorhees, who terrorizes a summer camp on this date.
But if you want to be extra sure, as well as doing all of the above to invite good luck, you must also avoid the following…
Do NOT allow a black cat to cross your path on a Friday 13th, move along pussycat. Pic: Getty Images
Try not to break any mirrors, don't walk under any ladders and under no circumstances should you open an umbrella indoors today of all days.
Be safe out there and Happy Friday 13th.
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