Friday the 13th: A Superstitious Date
- Angelplace on Earth
- Dec 9, 2024
- 3 min read
Friday the 13th: A Day of Luck or Doom?
We'll have a Friday the 13th in December 2024. But what does this date signify, and why is it associated with such strong feelings?
Next Friday the 13th is on December 13th 2024.
A Clash of Cultures
In many Western cultures, Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day. This superstition is often linked to Christian and Norse mythology. In Christianity, Friday is associated with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, while in Norse mythology, the number 13 is linked to the trickster god Loki, who brought chaos to a gathering of 12 gods.
However, in some cultures, Friday the 13th is considered lucky. In Spanish-speaking countries, it's often seen as a fortunate day, particularly for births.
August Is the Worst
In Brazil, Friday the 13th in August is considered unluckier than any other Friday the 13th, especially as agosto (August) rhymes with desgosto (sorrow).
Some charities use Friday 13 for fundraising events. At Port Dover in Ontario, Canada, there is a big celebration for motorcyclists called PD13, which attracts large crowds.
Others choose to have parties with unlucky or creepy themes similar to Halloween.
Famous Horror Film
“Friday the 13th” is also the name of a commercially successful Hollywood movie series. An image of a hockey mask donned by the film's character Jason is often associated with the film.
Super Lucky
In many Spanish speaking countries, Friday 13th is a lucky day. In fact, the Spanish edition of “Friday the 13th” was renamed “Tuesday the 13th” (“Martes 13”), because this is believed to be the unluckiest day of the year. It is also a common belief that Friday 13 is a particularly lucky day for children to be born.
Judas – 13th Guest at the Last Supper
Some say that the concept of Friday and the number 13 being unlucky may be linked to stories from the Bible. For example, Judas Iscariot, the apostle who betrayed Jesus, has been labeled "the 13th guest" at the Last Supper.
Other biblical events that supposedly occurred on a Friday include the great flood during the time of Noah, the confusion of languages at the Tower of Babel, the day Eve tempted Adam with the apple, and Good Friday, the day Jesus was crucified.
On Friday 13, October 1307, a warrant was issued for the Knights Templar to be arrested. Masses of Templars were tortured or executed.
Loki – Norse Party Crasher
The superstition surrounding Friday 13 could also be linked to Norse mythology. According to one legend, 12 gods were at a banquet at Valhalla when Loki, the demi-god of mischief who was not invited, turned up, bringing the total number of guests to 13. He was responsible for the chaos that led to the death of one of the good gods, Balder, so all the gods grieved.
Egyptian Afterlife
The ancient Egyptians thought the number 13 was lucky because they believed that the 13th stage of life was related to the afterlife. After the decline of the ancient Egyptian civilization, the number 13 was still associated with the end of earthly life. However, its connotation shifted from hope to death and fear.
Friggatriskaidekaphobia: The Fear of Friday the 13th
For those who believe in its ill fortune, Friday the 13th can trigger anxiety and fear. Friggatriskaidekaphobia is the specific phobia associated with this date. Symptoms can range from mild unease to severe panic attacks.
The name of the phobia derives from Frigg, the Norse goddess whom Friday is named after, and triskaidekaphobia, which is Greek for the fear of 13. It's also known as paraskevidekatriaphobia, which is based on paraskevi, the Greek word for Friday.
Symbols
Some people believe that the number 13 and black cats, which are associated with Friday 13, are symbols of femininity.
A Day of Celebration or Avoidance?
Despite the negative connotations, some people embrace Friday the 13th. Some charities use the date for fundraising events, and in certain places, it's celebrated with festivals and parties.
Ultimately, whether you consider Friday the 13th lucky or unlucky often depends on your cultural background and personal beliefs.
For me, it is truly a fortunate day, where the energies conspire to work miraculously in my favor.
Love, Light, Peace & Joy
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