Данная статья ориентирована на изучающих английский язык, для практики навыков чтения и пополнения словарного запаса.
Superstitions have always held a fascinating grip on human beings. Despite advancements in science and technology, there are still several modern superstitions prevalent in today's society. From avoiding the number thirteen to knocking on wood for good luck, these beliefs continue to influence our behavior. Here are the top ten modern superstitions that have endured through the ages.
Black Cats
Many people consider black cats to be symbols of bad luck. Crossing paths with one is believed to bring misfortune. This superstition is so ingrained that some animal shelters struggle to find homes for black cats, especially around Halloween.
Friday the 13th
This particular date has long been associated with bad luck. So much so that hotels may skip labeling the thirteenth floor, and many people avoid making significant decisions or traveling on this day.
Walking under a ladder
Stepping beneath a ladder is seen as tempting fate. This superstition may stem from ancient Egyptian belief that a ladder leaning against a wall formed a triangle—one of their sacred shapes. Thus, passing through it would break the divine harmony.
Knocking on Wood
To avert bad luck, people often knock on wood after making a favorable statement or prediction. This superstition may have originated from the belief that good spirits inhabited trees or that striking wood summoned their protection.
Breaking a Mirror
The superstition that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck dates back to ancient Rome. It was believed that the shattered mirror allowed evil spirits to enter the soul of the person who broke it.
Opening an Umbrella Indoors
Many people believe that opening an umbrella indoors is unlucky. This superstition may have arisen due to practical reasons, as opening an umbrella indoors could cause damage or accidents in confined spaces.
Fingers Crossing
Crossing one's fingers is a superstition used to bring good luck or to express hopefulness. This action is believed to have originated from early Christian times when believers would cross their index fingers to ward off evil.
Lucky Charms
Carrying or wearing specific items, like a rabbit's foot or a four-leaf clover, is believed to bring good luck. These good luck charms have become iconic symbols in various cultures worldwide.
Tossing Spilled Salt Over One's Shoulder
If a person accidentally spills salt, superstition dictates that they should throw a pinch over their left shoulder to ward off bad luck. This practice is believed to stem from the idea that salt was once scarce and valuable, making spilling it a symbol of waste or carelessness.
Wishbones
The tradition of breaking a wishbone—an emblem of luck—has been passed down for generations. Two individuals pull the wishbone until it snaps, with the person holding the larger piece believed to have their wish granted.
While science and reason debunk many superstitions, they continue to shape our behavior and culture. These modern superstitions highlight the enduring fascination humans have with the supernatural and our deep-rooted desire for protection, good luck, and fortune. So, whether you cross your fingers or avoid black cats, superstitions remain an intriguing part of our lives.
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