Friday the 13th is often associated with bad luck, superstitions, and even horror movies, but the origins of this ominous date trace back to a complex blend of history, folklore, and human psychology.
The fear surrounding Friday the 13th has deep historical roots. We will look back at some popular theories regarding the origins of this fearful date. We also asked some professionals about the reasons why people have such a strong fear of a number.
Ancient origins of fear
The superstition surrounding Friday the 13th can be traced back to ancient civilizations, according to some theories. The number 12 was often considered a symbol of completeness and order in many cultures.
For instance, the ancient Egyptians had 12 months in their lunar calendar, the Mayans developed a calendar based on a 260-day cycle, and the Babylonians used a base-60 numbering system.
However, the number 13 was seen as irregular, incomplete, and even mystical, thus making it a source of fear.
Christian influence
The Christian tradition added to the apprehension surrounding Friday the 13th. Judas Iscariot, the betrayer of Jesus, is traditionally believed to have been the 13th person present at the Last Supper, which occurred on a Friday. This linkage with treachery, the crucifixion of Jesus, and a day considered unlucky all played a part in reinforcing the superstition.
The Knights Templar
One of the most notorious events linking Friday and the number 13 is the historical fact of the arrest of the Knights Templar on Friday, Oct. 13, 1307.
Under the joint authority of King Philip IV of France and Pope Clement V, the powerful and affluent Knights Templar were commanded to be apprehended. They were tortured and some were even burnt at the stake like witches. This event served to reinforce the unfavorable associations with both Friday and the number 13.
Modern superstition
The fear of Friday the 13th persisted and grew over the centuries, eventually becoming entrenched in popular culture.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, literature and media started to embrace the notion that Friday the 13th was an unfortunate day.
Indeed, we now have paraskavedekatriaphobia and friggatriskaidekaphobia in our lexicon – terms that both denote the fear of this supposedly unlucky day.
"I believe that superstitions thrive because they offer us a sense of control over certain aspects of life and nature. Fear and uncertainty also play significant roles in our belief in superstitions, as they serve as attempts to avoid negative human experiences," shared Mae Teotico, a graduate student taking her master's in Clinical Psychology at De La Salle University Manila. She continued, "even when the superstition appears unrelated to the feared event. Superstitions help alleviate anxiety and create an illusion of control in various situations."
We also asked a professional from the other spectrum. Tarot card reader Chelsi Angeles shared her opinion about superstitions. "I believe that the culture of superstition is perpetuated across generations as a means of exerting control over individuals and society through the power of mythology."
She continued, "Some superstitions may seem to come true due to personal experiences, consequences, and patterns observed in the lives of others, particularly within close-knit family relationships."
The fear and superstitions associated with Friday the 13th have developed over millennia, stemming from ancient beliefs and historical occurrences. This amalgamation of cultural influences, mythology, and human psychology has turned an ostensibly ordinary day into one that evokes apprehension.
Regardless of your personal beliefs regarding these superstitions, it's pretty clear that Friday the 13th will persist as a day that captures our imagination and sustains the eerie origins of fear in the contemporary world.