“Friday the 13th” is considered an unlucky day in many Western cultures, and the fear of this day is known as “paraskevidekatriaphobia.” The origins of the superstition surrounding this date are murky and multifaceted, with historical, religious, and folkloric roots. Here’s a brief overview of its history:

  1. Biblical Reference:
    • The number 13 has been considered unlucky because there were 13 individuals present at the Last Supper, with Jesus and his 12 apostles. Judas Iscariot, the apostle who later betrayed Jesus, is said to have been the 13th person to sit at the table. Additionally, the crucifixion of Jesus is believed to have taken place on a Friday, further linking the day and the number with notions of bad luck.
  2. Norse Mythology:
    • One of the tales from Norse mythology recounts a banquet in Valhalla attended by 12 gods. Loki, the trickster god who was not invited, crashed the party as the 13th guest. He caused chaos, which ultimately led to the death of the beloved god Balder.
  3. Middle Ages and Later Traditions:
    • The negative connotations associated with Friday the 13th gained momentum during the Middle Ages. For example, it was widely considered bad luck to begin a journey or a new project on a Friday.
    • In maritime traditions, setting sail on a Friday was viewed as bad luck.
  4. Modern Day:
    • Over time, Friday the 13th has become embedded in Western culture as a day of superstition. Today, some people go so far as to avoid flying, making major purchases, or even working on this day.
    • Popular culture has amplified the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th, most notably with the “Friday the 13th” horror film series, which revolves around the fictional character Jason Voorhees.
  5. Combination of Friday and 13:
    • Both Fridays and the number 13 have individual histories of bad luck, which could explain the particular unease around Friday the 13th. Friday has been considered an unlucky day to undertake journeys or begin new projects, while the number 13 has been viewed with suspicion because it’s one more than 12, a number traditionally considered complete (as seen with 12 months in a year, 12 zodiac signs, 12 apostles, etc.).
  6. Knights Templar Connection:
    • Another theory relates the day to the fall of the Knights Templar. On Friday, October 13, 1307, King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of the Templar Knights, leading to their torture and eventual disbandment.

Regardless of its origins, Friday the 13th continues to captivate and intrigue, with many people observing rituals or behaviours to ward off bad luck on this day. While some individuals may genuinely fear the date, for many, it’s become a fun cultural quirk, celebrated with themed events or movie marathons.