Don’t walk under ladders, don’t break mirrors and knock three times on wood to ward off bad luck, you know these and other superstitions.
Summary
Superstitions are part of Brazilian culture and are based on the belief that events or actions can influence the future in ways that defy scientific logic.
Have you ever noticed how superstitions Are they part of our daily life? In Brazil, these beliefs have deep roots and end up being seen as a traditional custom. Throughout history, they have become part of Brazilian culture and are more present in our routine than we imagine.
From amulets that we believe bring good luck to rituals we follow to avoid bad luck, such as not walking under ladders or breaking mirrors, superstitions are present in our lives and end up being passed down from generation to generation.
Brazil is a country rich in traditions and superstitions reflect this diversity.
The concept of superstition is quite broad, because it involves numerous practices that can vary according to different cultures and societies, but all share the common idea that certain events or objects have the power to influence luck, or destiny.
The importance of superstitions often goes beyond simple belief, they can have roots in the history, religion and traditions of a group.
What is superstition?
Superstitions are beliefs or practices that arise from the idea that certain events or actions can influence the future in ways that defy logic or scientific reason.
They are often based on traditions, myths, or personal experiences and can vary widely across cultures and regions. Superstitions often involve the idea that certain behaviors or symbols bring good luck or bad luck.
For example, you may have heard your grandmother tell you to put a bay leaf in your wallet on New Year’s Eve, saying that this would attract money and prosperity for the year, or that ritual that has become very popular on social media, blowing cinnamon on the first day of every month to attract positive energy.
While many superstitions may seem peculiar or even irrational, they offer a window into the complexity of human beliefs and the ways in which societies try to deal with the unknown.
Studying superstitions allows us to better understand local culture, psychology, and the human need to find meaning and control in an unpredictable world.
The most famous superstitions
Break a mirror
It is believed that the mirror reflects not only the image, but also the soul of a person. Breaking a mirror is seen as a break with one’s soul, which brings bad luck for a certain period of time, which varies according to tradition, but the most famous saying is that it is 7 years of bad luck.
Walking under a ladder
This superstition has very ancient origins, linked to the triangular shape that a ladder creates between the floor and the wall, which represents the Holy Trinity in the Christian tradition and also in the traditions of Ancient Egypt, which understand that the triangle represents life, therefore passing under the ladder is like a lack of respect.
The number 13
This number is often associated with bad luck, especially when it falls on a Friday (Friday the 13th). The reasons for this can vary, but some theories include the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, where 13 people were present, and Judas, the traitor, was the 13th.
Itchy palm
It is said that if your left palm itches you will lose money, but if it is your right palm it is a good omen: you will receive money! This superstition varies according to different cultures, but it is generally linked to financial omens.
four-leaf clover
Finding a four-leaf clover is considered rare and therefore a sign of good omen. For this reason, this symbol is always linked to signs of good omen.
Spend New Year’s Eve with money in your pocket
The tradition of starting the new year with money in your pocket is to ensure financial prosperity throughout the year. Lack of money in your pocket is seen as a sign that a person may face financial difficulties.
This is a very common superstition and ends up being passed down from generation to generation, just like keeping a bay leaf in your wallet to attract money.
Knock on wood to ward off bad luck
You know when someone says something that seems like a “bad omen”? That’s where this superstition comes in: it’s believed that knocking on the iron three times can prevent bad luck and drive away that negative energy that was said.
Make a wish on a shooting star
Who has never made a wish to a shooting star to throw the first stone, or perhaps has not yet seen one. This is a superstition that says the wish will be granted, since it is rare to see one in heaven.
Shooting stars were seen as divine signs, and the moment of their appearance was considered an opportune moment to ask for something special.
Sweeping the feet
In some cultures, it is believed that sweeping a person’s feet brings bad luck, especially in marriage. For those who do not yet have a ring on their finger, this is not a good sign, it is believed that this excludes the possibility of marriage.
Eat lentils in the new year
Eating lentils on New Year’s Eve is a tradition in many countries, as it is believed that this dish can bring prosperity and wealth for the year, as it resembles small coins. Because of this superstition, it has become so common to see this legume during the New Year’s Eve dinner.
How to deal with superstitions?
As you can see, superstitions are present in the Brazilian imagination and end up being a guide for many people, which end up becoming customs, often familiar.
It is common to see people who already have the end-of-year tradition of eating lentils, for example, or leaving a few banknotes in their pockets.
Others don’t go under ladders at all or hate breaking mirrors. The important thing is to try to understand its origins and meanings, so that it doesn’t become something that has “control” of your life.
It is important to recognize that, in most cases, superstitions have no scientific basis. Maintaining a critical and rational mindset can help prevent these beliefs from crossing the line into your routine.
If you value these customs and traditions, find a balance that respects your personal beliefs without compromising your well-being. Engaging in superstitious practices outside of tradition can be a form of cultural connection, as long as it doesn’t negatively interfere with your life.
But remember: if you feel that a superstition is affecting your emotional or psychological state, seeking support can be a healthy solution.
To learn more about astrology and superstitions, follow the editor of Horoscopes of Earth!
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
