The Number 13
Image Source: TIME
Like the black cat, the number 13 wasn’t always a sign of bad luck. In many cultures, it was considered divine. The holy fire of the Aztecs burned for 13 years at a time, on a sacred platform with 13 steps leading up to it. The Mayas worshipped 13 gods. Indian Buddhists honored 13 Buddhas. The first United States flag displayed 13 stripes and 13 stars. Yet, fear of the number 13 is of the most common superstitions in existence today.
Image Source: Foundations Of America
Long ago, much of the largely uneducated population simply couldn’t count that high. Twelve was often the highest number one could count to that had a definite value and meaning—beyond that was a world of numerical mystery. Thirteen was the first number beyond 12 and the sheer perplexity it inspired gave way to fear.
In Christianity, the Last Supper brought Christ and his twelve disciples together, forming a group of 13. Cause and effect led many Christians to believe it was the gathering of 13 at a dinner table that ultimately led to the crucifixion of Jesus. Likewise, the number 13 is marked in pagan traditions as a disastrous number.
In addition, Black Mass was introduced by Satanic cults in an attempt to mock the Christian Holy Communion. Followers met in secret covens composed of 12 witches and one warlock (for a total of 13). Christians thus proclaimed 13 to be unlucky in order to keep people away from the Satanic gatherings that mocked their religion.
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The fear of the number 13, or triskaidekaphobia, still exists today. Hotels and apartment complexes are often missing a 13th floor. A “baker’s dozen,” thirteen loaves once supplied in bulk, were so named to avoid the use of the number 13 altogether. These common superstitions, along with others, are still prevalent today. Although most are no longer relevant, the most common superstitions are too deeply engrained in world cultures to be forgotten.
