Superstitions have been a part of human culture for centuries, influencing behaviour, traditions, and even major life decisions. 

Some superstitions bring luck, others ward off evil, and some serve as warnings.

The origins of superstition

Superstitions originate from ancient customs, religious beliefs, or misunderstandings of natural events. Before science provided explanations, people relied on folklore to make sense of life’s mysteries. 

For example, thunder was once believed to be the gods expressing anger, and a solar eclipse was considered a bad omen. Even today, many superstitions persist despite scientific advancements.

Superstitions in different cultures

• China: The power of numbers

Numbers play a significant role in Chinese superstitions. The number 4 is considered unlucky because its pronunciation (‘sì’) sounds similar to the word for death. 

• Japan: The fear of cutting nails at night

A common Japanese superstition warns against cutting your nails at night, as it is believed to shorten one’s life.

• India: The evil eye (nazar)

In India, as well as in parts of the Middle East and Mediterranean, people believe in the ‘evil eye,’ a curse caused by envious looks. 

• The UK: Walking under ladders

In the UK, walking under a ladder is considered bad luck. This belief dates back to medieval times when ladders were associated with gallows and execution. 

• Nigeria: Whistling at night

In many African cultures, including Nigeria, whistling at night is considered bad luck. It is believed to attract evil spirits or snakes. 

• South Africa: Owls as harbingers of death

Owls are often seen as symbols of wisdom in Western cultures, but in South Africa, they are associated with death and witchcraft. 

• Brazil: Sweeping someone’s feet brings bad luck

In Brazil, it is believed that sweeping over someone’s feet will curse them with bad luck, particularly in love and marriage. 

• Turkey: Spilling water for good luck

In Turkey, it is customary to throw a glass of water behind someone as they leave for a trip. This is believed to ensure a smooth journey, as the water represents ease and flow.

• Iran: Avoiding knives as gifts

In Iran, giving someone a knife as a gift is believed to sever the relationship. To counteract this, the recipient often gives a small coin in return, symbolising that they ‘bought’ the knife instead of receiving it as a gift.

• New Zealand: Stepping over a threshold

In Māori culture, stepping over a threshold without acknowledging it can be disrespectful. The doorway is seen as a symbolic space between worlds, and ignoring it may invite bad spirits.

Why do people believe in superstitions?

Superstitions persist for several psychological and cultural reasons.

• Fear of the unknown: Superstitions provide explanations for things that people cannot control, such as death, illness, or accidents.
• Tradition and culture: Many superstitions are passed down through generations, becoming ingrained in society.
• Confirmation bias: When something bad happens after an ‘unlucky’ action, people remember it more than when nothing happens, reinforcing their belief.
• Sense of control: Following superstitions can provide comfort and a sense of control over unpredictable situations.

Superstitions may seem illogical, but they play a meaningful role in cultures worldwide. Whether they bring comfort, provide a sense of protection, or simply continue a long-standing tradition, they remain a fascinating aspect of human belief.