Ladybug by jhoc, on Flickr
Don't walk underneath any ladders, stay away from fragile mirrors and if you see a black cat, run for your life. Today is Friday the 13th, the unluckiest day of the year for the superstitious.
Superstitions such as Friday the 13th occur all over the world. Fortunately, it's customary for nations to have good luck charms as well. Here are 7 lucky charms from around the world to help you ward off the bad luck today may bring:
1. Ladybugs
Ladybugs are seen as lucky around the world. One reason this superstition may exist is due to the ladybug's eating habits. These spotted insects are known for eating tiny creatures that are harmful to crops, such as aphids. No wonder farmers rejoice at the sight of a ladybug. Consequently, if you kill one of these little beetles you will be doomed with misfortune.
2. Acorns
The luck of acorns is a Norse superstition having to do with Thor, the god of thunder and lightning. Norse believed that the oak tree, on which acorns grow, was sacred to Thor. Since Thor was so fond of oak trees, they placed the tree's seeds near their windows to ward off his lightning attacks. Acorns were also seen as representatives of prosperity, youth and spiritual growth.
3. Ladders
Ladders, the very thing we are forbidden from walking underneath to avoid bad luck, are considered lucky in some cultures. Ladders help people stay away from earthly temptations and journey upward into the spiritual world. For example, the Egyptians placed ladders into their tombs to help their spirits climb toward the heavens.
4. Frogs
Frogs are considered lucky for a few reasons. In Japan, frogs are seen as good luck charms to travelers, as they are thought to ensure their safe return home. In many countries frogs are also a symbol of abundance and fertility due to the number of eggs they lay. This amphibian has also been called a symbol of transformation because of its life-cycle from tadpole to frog. If you spot a frog, it may be a sign that you're ready for a transition in your life.
5. Eggs
Eggs represent fertility and new life, so it makes sense that they are considered lucky by many cultures. In ancient Voodoo, eggs are key ingredients in spells that bring good fortune and get rid of any bad energy that may be surrounding you. Eggs were also thought to bring good weather and good crop seasons.
6. Vulture Heads
caption ="Vulture by adkorte, on Flickr
In South Africa, vulture heads were thought to be lucky due to the vulture's eyesight. Since vultures have great vision, ancient cultures believed they could see into the future. This superstition became so popular that it is still believed today. In Africa, vultures are hunted and killed so their heads can be chopped off and sold to luck-seeking gamblers.
7. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a delicious spice with many uses. The Egyptians used cinnamon with embalming, the Bible tells of Moses using cinnamon as an ingredient in a holy anointing oil, many cultures use cinnamon as a remedy for a variety of ailments and cinnamon smells and tastes wonderful. No wonder this spice is considered lucky. Many people carry cinnamon sticks with them to bring good fortune when dealing with money and chance.
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