Why Do We Think Friday The 13th Is Unlucky?

When you woke up this morning, did you check the date with a start? It’s Friday 13 December, and another morning of gloom is descending on the UK. Friday the 13th: it’s a horror film, a superstition, and it also has Christian roots. But why is this otherwise innocent day considered unfortunate in the western world? Here’s exactly why you think Friday the 13th is unlucky.

Why Is Friday The 13th Unlucky?

Friday the 13th is considered unlucky due to a blend of historical, religious and cultural influences. While you may think the number 13 is a larger part of the discomfort people feel with the day, Fridays have long been considered unlucky: Jesus was crucified on a Friday in the Christian tradition, while Fridays were a common day for executions in medieval Europe. Add to this the unluckiness of the number 13, and you have a perfectly horrible combination.

Why Is The Number 13 Unlucky?

In the western world, 13 has long been perceived as an unlucky number, partly due to numerology: 12 is considered a complete, even, pleasing number, while 13 a prime number that feels irregular and out of place. There are 12 months in the year, 12 hours on a clock, and even 12 zodiac signs. When 13 replaces 12, bad things happen: in the Christian tradition, 13 guests attended the Last Supper, and Judas, the disciple who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th to sit down. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was thus distasteful to seat 13 guests at a table. In Norse mythology, Loki, the trickster god, was the uninvited 13th guest at a feast in Valhalla, leading to chaos and the death of the beloved god Balder.

Today, while many people resist the superstition, there’s still a widely held distaste for the number 13: some airplanes don’t have a 13th row of seats, many buildings skip labelling the 13th floor, and if you stroll down a residential street, you often won’t find number 13, with many developers skipping from 11 straight to 15.

When Did The Superstition Start?

While disapproval of the number 13 can be found throughout historical texts – stretching as far back as Babylonia (c. 1900 BCE), when the number 13 was omitted from the legal code – the superstition that Friday the 13th is unlucky was really cemented in the 19th and 20th centuries. This is when the unluckiness of the day started appearing more in literature and was discussed more widely. For example, Henry Sutherland Edwards referred to the ‘unluckiness’ of Friday and the number 13 in an 1869 biography of Gioachino Rossini, who died on a Friday the 13th. But fellow writer Thomas W. Lawson really popularised the superstition with his 1907 novel, Friday, the Thirteenth, in which a stockbroker exploits the superstition to create chaos on Wall Street – implying it was already a widely held belief.

In the modern day, perhaps the most pertinent reference to the superstition is the horror film franchise, Friday the 13th, which transformed bad luck into terror.

What Does Friday The 13th Mean For My Star Sign?

Instead of languishing in fear, here’s what each star sign should embrace on Friday 13 December 2024. Whether you’re superstitious or not, use the day to embrace the unexpected and lean into positive energy.

Aries (21 March–19 April)

Today is all about bold opportunities. You might feel a surge of confidence that propels you to take a risk. Trust your instincts—they’re sharper than ever. A chance encounter could spark an exciting new idea or project.

Taurus (20 April–20 May)

Ground yourself, Taurus, as today brings a sense of stability amidst the chaos. An overdue resolution might come your way, especially in finances or relationships. A cosy evening with loved ones will remind you of the simple joys of life.

Gemini (21 May–20 June)

Your curiosity is at an all-time high, Gemini. This Friday the 13th, embrace unexpected learning opportunities. A random conversation could lead to an exciting new path. Stay open-minded – your adaptability will work wonders.

Cancer (21 June–22 July)

Emotions might run high, but this is a day for healing and personal breakthroughs. Spend time nurturing your inner world, and you’ll find clarity. A surprise message or gesture from someone you care about could brighten your day.

Leo (23 July–22 August)

Your charisma is magnetic today, Leo. Friday the 13th brings a surprising spotlight moment – whether it’s at work, in social settings, or even online. Use this chance to shine and inspire others.

Virgo (23 August–22 September)

Today is about letting go of perfectionism and embracing serendipity. A minor detour could lead to unexpected rewards, so stay flexible. Your practical skills will come in handy when solving a puzzling situation.

Libra (23 September–22 October)

Balance is your theme, and Friday the 13th brings harmony to areas where there’s been tension. Whether it’s resolving a conflict or finalizing a decision, you’ll find everything falling into place.

Scorpio (23 October–21 November)

Today’s energy is mysterious and magnetic – just like you! Trust your gut; it’ll lead you to uncover something valuable. A small risk could bring an unexpected reward, so don’t shy away from stepping out of your comfort zone.

Sagittarius (22 November–21 December)

Adventurous Sagittarius, this is your day to explore! Whether it’s a literal journey or diving into a new idea, you’re in for a thrilling experience. Luck is on your side—especially in social or creative pursuits.

Capricorn (22 December–19 January)

Friday the 13th brings a sense of accomplishment, Capricorn. A task you’ve been diligently working on finally comes together. Celebrate your hard work, and don’t hesitate to share your success with others.

Aquarius (20 January–18 February)

Your innovative mind is buzzing today. You might stumble upon a solution to a problem that’s been bothering you for a while. Collaborations are particularly fruitful, so lean into teamwork.

Pisces (19 February–20 March)

Dreamy Pisces, this Friday the 13th inspires creativity and intuition. Whether through art, writing, or simply daydreaming, let your imagination take the lead. A spiritual or emotional insight could guide you to a new beginning.