Superstitions are defined as the belief in supernatural forces like that of fate resulting from the constant desire to get an answer for unpredictable occurrences. It results from this desire to put an end to any sort of uncertainty. A research conducted by scientists has derived that superstitions originate from the preconceived notion that co-occurring and dissimilar events are related. For example, the idea that a particular charm will keep bad luck at bay for you. Many people try to relieve themselves from anxiety and stress by using superstition. It was especially noticeable during the economic threat faced by Germany between 1918 and 1940.
All across the globe, people have become prey to superstitions. They try to avoid or abide by certain protocols in order to avoid the wrath of supernatural forces. Here are some of the most bizarre of them you might have heard of from across the world.
1. Russia and its empty bottles
Russians have this bizarre notion that placing empty bottles on the ground will bring immense good luck to them. This superstition is related to the Russian soldiers in the 19th century. When in Paris, these soldiers were able to save money by hiding the bottles underground as they would be charged for the empty ones on the table.
2. Turkey and its chewing gum story
Turkish people are against chewing gum at night as it is considered as a bad omen. They think that the gum they chew will turn into the skin of the dead at night. However, the origin of this superstition cannot be traced back to any particular incident. It is also not known when people started believing in it.
3. The UK and uttering the word “rabbit”
According to this 2,000-year-old legend, it is believed that saying the word “rabbit rabbit” at the beginning of the month will bring you good luck for the rest of it. The words “tibbar tibbar” should be uttered that night before bed to make it come true. This superstition has been in practice since the 19th Century.
4. Brazil and leaving your wallet on the ground
Even though it might seem like a stupid thing to do, it’s a superstition for many. Putting your wallet on the ground is said to bring bad financial luck. This is also prevalent in the Philippines and countries in South America. The Chinese people also commonly use the phrase, “a purse on the floor is money out of the door” to indicate the same omen.
5. Serbia and spilling water
Even though it seems like a thing of bad luck to do, Serbians consider it something of good luck. The people of Serbia often spill some water behind someone they love to offer them good luck. They especially do so when they are going on a trip or maybe a job interview. Water in their culture is considered something of motion and fluidity. This superstition is quite well-known in Serbia.
While it may seem favorable to avoid certain things and follow certain things for superstitions, it can have effects on mental health and well-being.
