For Taylor Swift fans, December 13, which falls on a Friday this year, will be a day of celebration. It is, after all, their beloved singer's 34th birthday. But for the millions who suffer from paraskevidekatriaphobia — the fear of Friday the 13th — it will be the unluckiest day of the year. The origins of this superstition remain unclear. However, experts have some theories.
The fear of Friday the 13th begins with the number 13 itself. Thomas Fernsler, an associate policy scientist at the University of Delaware, suggests the anxiety comes from the fact that 13 follows the "complete" number 12. There are 12 months in a year, 12 zodiac signs, 12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles of Jesus, and so on. Hence, the number that follows is considered "incomplete" and, therefore, unlucky.
Donald Dossey, a folklore historian, traces the fear of 13 to a popular Scandinavian legend. According to the story, twelve gods were enjoying a peaceful dinner when Loki, the trickster Norse god, crashed the gathering. He convinced Hoder, the blind god of darkness, to kill Balder, the god of joy and gladness. Since then, the number 13 has been associated with misfortune.
Friday's bad reputation is believed to be rooted in religion. According to the Bible, Jesus was crucified on a Friday. The date was not the 13th. However, the execution occurred after the Last Supper, attended by Jesus and his 12 apostles. Judas Iscariot, the disciple said to have betrayed Jesus, was among them. Many biblical scholars maintain that Eve tempted Adam with the forbidden fruit on a Friday. The one historical event believed to have occurred on Friday the 13th is when Cain, the son of Adam and Eve, killed his brother, Abel.
Regardless of its origins, the fear of Friday the 13th is widespread. Experts estimate that over 20 million Americans — and many more worldwide — experience heightened anxiety on this day. Many people avoid going to work, traveling, or making big purchases on this day. Experts estimate that US businesses lose about $900 million every Friday the 13th.
For the adventurous, Friday the 13th could turn out to be surprisingly lucky. Retailers often offer big discounts to attract shoppers. So, take advantage and grab a bargain or two at your favorite stores this Friday.
Happy Friday the 13th!
Resources: Wikipedia.org, History.com, NPR.com
