Friday the 13th has long been associated with bad luck, a belief that continues to persist across cultures and generations. While many people treat the date with humour, the superstition has deep historical and religious roots.
The Biblical Connection
One of the most commonly cited origins traces back to the Last Supper, where 13 people – Jesus Christ and his twelve apostles – gathered on the evening before the crucifixion.
The number 13 became associated with betrayal because Judas Iscariot, traditionally considered the thirteenth guest at the table, later betrayed Christ. The following day, Friday, became linked to tragedy as it marked the day of the crucifixion.
Over time, the number 13 came to be viewed as imperfect, particularly when compared with the number 12, which symbolises completeness in many traditions – from the months of the year to the zodiac signs.
The Knights Templar Arrest
Another historical event often associated with the superstition occurred on Friday, 13 October 1307, when Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of hundreds of members of the Knights Templar.
The powerful order was accused of heresy and corruption following allegations brought under pressure from Pope Clement V. Many of the confessions were reportedly extracted under torture, and numerous knights were executed.
The order’s Grand Master, Jacques de Molay, was burned at the stake in Paris. According to legend, he pronounced a curse on those responsible for the persecution shortly before his death.
Although historians debate the authenticity of this story, the dramatic events surrounding the arrests helped reinforce the association of Friday the 13th with misfortune.
A Recognised Phobia
The fear of the date even has a scientific name: paraskevidekatriaphobia, the irrational fear of Friday the 13th.
However, the unlucky day varies by country. In Greece and many Spanish-speaking countries, the date associated with bad luck is Tuesday the 13th, while in Italy, the unlucky combination is Friday the 17th.
Other Signs Of Bad Luck
The superstition surrounding Friday the 13th sits alongside other widely known symbols of bad luck, including:
- A black cat crossing one’s path
- Breaking a mirror
- Walking under a ladder
- Opening an umbrella indoors
- Saying the title of Shakespeare’s “Scottish play” inside a theatre
Even A Computer Virus
The superstition even found its way into early computer culture. In 1988, a computer virus known as Friday the 13th was reportedly created in Israel. The virus would activate when the system calendar displayed Friday the 13th, slowing down the computer’s performance.
Despite the myths and legends, historians note that there is no concrete evidence linking the date itself to increased misfortune. Yet the combination of religious symbolism, medieval history and cultural storytelling has ensured that Friday the 13th remains one of the world’s most enduring superstitions.