Superstitions and myths are based on fear or misunderstanding, often meant to bring good luck or avoid bad fortune. The popular understanding is that illiteracy makes people superstitious.
This is because the practical implications or scientific reasoning behind the origin of superstitions is not known to them. Okay, so here are some popular superstitions that are believed even in the present times.
Common Superstitions And Myths
Breaking a mirror which is believed to bring bad luck for seven years: The origin lies in the belief of Ancient Romans that the soul reflected in the mirror rejuvenates every seven years so breaking it destroys the soul.
Walking under a ladder brings bad luck or misfortune: The origin lies in the belief of Ancient Christians that a ladder resting against a wall forms a triangle which symbolizes the Holy trinity which is broken when you walk under it.
Touch Wood: Knocking on the wood wards off bad luck due to an ancient belief that good spirits lived in trees and touching wood is asking them for protection.
Black cats crossing your path brings bad luck: It’s origin is from ancient times when bullock carts and horse drawn carriages were used for travel. When all of a sudden a black cat usually a jungle cat would jump in front of the cart, it caused panic in the animals leading to accidents.
Opening an umbrella indoors: This practice believed to bring bad luck as umbrellas serve as protection from Sun God, hence opening them indoors angers the deity.
Avoiding Peepal trees at night as it is believed to be a habitation of ghosts and wandering spirits. The actual origin lies in the fact that trees release carbon dioxide during the night which is harmful.
Hanging lemons and chillies to ward off evil eye: This was done to prevent insects from entering the house. But, a more interesting story lies in the belief that Alakshmi, the sister of Goddess Lakshmi, is considered to bring misfortune and poverty. Unlike Lakshmi, Alakshmi likes sour, spicy and pungent flavors. Hanging lemon and chilies near the door will satisfy her cravings and she would leave without entering the house.
Will These Stay With Us Forever!
Superstitions and myths are ways by which people try to control and protect themselves and their loved ones. These have been passed down through generations and so much so that eventually people forget its practical implications.
Some people still believe in some of these superstitions and myths while many of us find them amusing.
