Quote from Angela on April 28, 2022, 10:25 pm

Here we take a look at the history surrounding ancient superstitions.

Is there any truth in being protected from bad omen and misfortune when adhering to traditional superstition?

Lucky Pennies

The simple penny, a simple slice of copper, believed to hold a host of supernatural power.

‘See a penny, pick it up, all day long you’ll have good luck. Give it to a faithful friend and your luck will have no end.’ The origin of this folklore spans way back to dark ages, in 785CE, when the English penny was introduced.

Anglo Saxons firmly believed the pennies were a gift from heaven sent to defend them against unseen evils. One side of the penny represented good (heads), the other side was evil (tails).

The Magic Wishbone

We are all familiar with pulling the wishbone. Families gathering enjoying a meal, the someone calls out ‘i have the wishbone’. The puller who ends up with the longer piece is considered the winner.

As a reward the victor receives a single wish. This tradition dates back to 900BCE from the ancient Italian Etruscans, who believed that birds were oracles who could see the future. When they slaughtered livestock birds they would save the wishbone hoping that the birds powers would be passed on.

The wishbones were used as ‘good luck’ symbols and many believed if you stroke the wishbone whilst visualizing your wish, your dreams would certainly manifest into reality.

Knock On Wood

We have all heard folks say the phrase ‘knock on wood’ usually before embarking on a trying task for good luck. This tradition emanated from Celtic tradition, the Celts would recite ‘go touch wood’.

Whilst exploring the ancient forests they would collect tree branches, which was seen as an act of seeking favor from mystical fairies. It was believed that when they touched the wood of the trees, and clapped branches together, they would be protected from dark magic and evil spirits. 

Black Cats

We are all familiar with the saying ‘if you see a black cat crossing your path turn around and go right back'. Where did these sayings come from? Early Scots believed if a black cat came into a home signified bad omen. In the 1600s during the witch trial era black cats were denoted as being evil. 

Myth, coincidence, old wives tales or real magic?

What do you think?

Can you add to our list of superstitions?