 Superstitions began centuries ago when our
ancestors tried to explain mysterious
circumstances or events as best as they could with the knowledge
they had.
For instance, before the development of science explained such
strange things as why mirrors show our reflections or why shadows
appear when it's sunny, ancient people reasoned that a shadow or
reflection was part of their soul.
If someone broke something onto which the shadow or reflection
appeared, people believed that their soul was harmed. Therefore,
when a person broke a mirror it was considered unlucky or
harmful.
Today we know that reflections and shadows are not part of our
souls but if someone still believes it is bad luck to break a mirror
they are said to be superstitious.
So a superstition is a belief or practice that people cling to even after new knowledge or facts
prove that these silly beliefs are untrue.
Common superstitions:
Do not walk under a ladder or you will
invite bad luck.
Breaking a mirror will bring you 7 years of bad
luck.
It's bad luck to have a black cat cross your path.
If
you see a shooting star it will bring
you good luck.
The number 13 is bad luck.
Carrying a
rabbit's foot in your pocket will bring good luck.
Don't eat
chicken on New Year's Day or you will be scratching for money but if
you eat pork you will be fattened with prosperity/money
People
believe that when you visit someone you should leave through the
same door you came in or otherwise it is bad luck.
If you step
on a crack you will break your mother's back.
If it rains on
your wedding day you will be showered with good luck. |
