Imagine walking through the vibrant streets of Istanbul, surrounded by the bustling crowd and the aroma of delicious Turkish food wafting through the air. As you immerse yourself in the local culture, you can’t help but notice the fascinating superstitions that shape the daily lives of the Turkish people. From the belief that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck to the precaution of wearing a blue bead to ward off the evil eye, Turkish superstitions reflect a rich tapestry of history and tradition. In this article, we will explore some of these captivating superstitions and uncover the cultural meaning behind them. So, get ready to embark on a journey into the mystical realm of Turkish beliefs and discover the intriguing significance behind their superstitions.
Turkish Superstitions and What They Mean
When it comes to superstitions, every culture has its fair share of beliefs and customs that have been passed down through generations. Turkey is no exception. Turkish superstitions are deeply ingrained in the culture and play a significant role in the daily lives of many people. From protecting against the evil eye to avoiding certain actions, these superstitions offer a glimpse into the rich folklore and traditions of the Turkish people. In this article, we explore ten Turkish superstitions and what they mean.
1. The Evil Eye
One of the most well-known Turkish superstitions is the belief in the evil eye, known as “nazar” in Turkish. It is believed that certain individuals possess the power to cast an evil eye, which can bring harm or misfortune to others. To protect against the evil eye, Turks often wear or display blue beads or amulets, known as “nazar boncuk,” which are thought to ward off negative energy. It is also common to hear people say “mashallah” or “maşallah” (meaning “God has willed it”) as a way to ward off any potential harm caused by the evil eye.
2. Friday the 13th
Similar to many other cultures, Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day in Turkey. It is believed that on this day, one should avoid making any major decisions or engaging in risky activities. Many people choose to stay at home and avoid traveling on this particular date. The fear of Friday the 13th, known as “paraskevidekatriaphobia,” is deeply ingrained in Turkish culture, and people often take extra precautions to ensure they don’t encounter any misfortune on this day.
3. Breaking a Mirror
In Turkey, breaking a mirror is considered to bring seven years of bad luck. This superstition stems from the belief that mirrors hold the reflection of the soul, and breaking one can lead to a damaged or fragmented soul. To avoid this potentially lengthy period of bad luck, it is customary for individuals to pick up the broken pieces, carefully discard them, and say a prayer or make a wish to counteract the negative effects.
4. Black Cat Crossing Your Path
Black cats are often associated with bad luck in many cultures, and Turkey is no exception. It is believed that if a black cat crosses your path, misfortune is sure to follow. To ward off the bad luck, Turks will often recite a protective prayer or make a small gesture with their hand. Despite this superstition, it’s important to note that black cats are cherished and revered in Turkish folklore and are seen as a symbol of good luck in certain situations.
5. Stepping on a Threshold
In Turkish culture, it is considered bad luck to step on a threshold. The threshold represents the boundary between different spaces, such as the inside and outside of a home. It is believed that stepping on a threshold can disrupt the balance and harmony between these spaces. To avoid any potential misfortune, Turks are careful to step over the threshold rather than on it.
6. Opening an Umbrella Indoors
Opening an umbrella indoors is considered unlucky in Turkey, as it is believed to bring bad luck or even cause a death in the family. This superstition originates from the notion that opening an umbrella inside the house disrupts the natural flow of energy and invites negative spirits. To avoid any potential harm, it is customary to only open an umbrella outdoors or in an open space.
7. Sweeping Someone’s Feet
Sweeping someone’s feet is seen as an inauspicious act in Turkish culture. It is believed that sweeping someone’s feet can sweep away their luck and happiness. To counteract this potential misfortune, Turks will often knock on wood or touch a wooden object after accidentally sweeping someone’s feet. This is believed to ward off any negative energy and restore good luck.
8. Spilled Salt
Spilling salt is considered an unfortunate event in Turkish superstitions. It is believed to symbolize wasted resources or lost opportunities. To counteract the negative effects, it is customary to throw a pinch of salt over the left shoulder with the right hand. This action is believed to blind the evil spirits and nullify the bad luck brought by the spilled salt.
9. Sneezing
Sneezing holds a special significance in Turkish culture. It is believed that when someone sneezes, their soul momentarily leaves their body, leaving them vulnerable to the evil eye or negative spirits. To ward off any potential harm, Turks will often say “çok yaşa” (meaning “live long”) after someone sneezes. This well-wishing gesture is meant to protect the person from any negative energy.
10. Hiccups
Hiccups, while usually harmless, are seen as a sign of an impending event in Turkish superstitions. It is believed that when someone has hiccups, it means that someone, somewhere is talking about them or remembering them. To put an end to the hiccups and break the connection, Turks employ various methods such as drinking water from an upside-down glass, being surprised, or reciting a certain phrase. These actions are meant to distract the person having hiccups and interrupt the thoughts or mentions causing them.
In conclusion, Turkish superstitions provide insight into the rich cultural traditions and beliefs of the Turkish people. From protecting against the evil eye to avoiding certain actions, these superstitions are deeply ingrained in the fabric of Turkish society. Whether it’s wearing blue beads to ward off negative energy or being cautious of Friday the 13th, these superstitions are a testament to the importance of folklore and traditions in Turkey. So, next time you find yourself in Turkey, remember to be mindful of these beliefs and embrace the rich tapestry of Turkish culture.