As December opens, the infamous Friday the 13th is here, but this month might just sprinkle some extra magic into the day. Coinciding with the Geminids meteor shower, it’s an ideal chance to set aside superstitions and make wishes upon shooting stars, bringing a touch of wonder to what some consider an unlucky day.
If you miss the dazzling display in the night sky, fret not! Embrace the peculiar customs linked with Friday the 13th to turn it into a day of celebration and fun rather than fear.
The notion of Friday the 13th as a day of misfortune is steeped in religious and cultural history. In Christianity, the day is linked to the Last Supper where Judas, the 13th attendee, betrayed Jesus, which ultimately led to his crucifixion on a Friday. Norse mythology adds to this, featuring Loki, the 13th god, as a symbol of chaos and destruction.
Over the centuries, this superstition has been further solidified—most notably following the mass arrest of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13th, 1307.
Looking ahead, the next Friday the 13th will appear in June next year, while 2026 will be notable with three instances—occurring in February, March, and November—the most possible in one calendar year.
For those who like to navigate Friday the 13th with caution, here are some superstitions to either avoid or embrace:
Things to avoid include:
– Breaking a mirror – considered to invite seven years of bad luck.
– Walking under a ladder – believed to disrupt the sacred triangle symbolizing life and fortune.
– Spilling salt – seen as a bad omen, but you can counter it by tossing a bit over your left shoulder to fend off misfortune.
– Crossing paths with a black cat – often linked to witchcraft and considered unlucky on this day.
– Stepping on cracks – tied to the old nursery rhyme warning against inviting harm.
In contrast, pursuing positive superstitions can transform your day. Consider carrying a lucky charm, engaging in small acts of kindness, or taking a fresh risk that aligns with your passions.
This Friday the 13th could, after all, be a day to invite good fortune into your life rather than shying away from it. By embracing the magic of the Geminids and participating in uplifting traditions, you can turn an otherwise ominous day into an opportunity for hope and joy.