How Superstition in Different Cultures Shows Up

A few days ago, I was talking with some of my friends about superstitions that they believe and that their families live by. Hearing some of these rituals out loud can sound a little odd that leave me wondering, why?

I come from a predominantly Mexican household. It’s my mom and my grandma who are the most superstitious people in my life and who push the superstitions on the family. Both of them believe in a superstition that if you place your purse or bag on the floor all your money will be lost and I remember they bought special hooks to hang their purses from dinner tables when we ate at restaurants. I also reminisce on when I would go to my grandma’s house and I would be mesmerized watching her cook and throw a myriad of spices into a pot of so many delicious ingredients. I specifically remember the way she would put the spices in the broth. It would always be in the shape of a cross. Based on research I found out there is a superstition that you should always put spices in the shape of a cross in your food. (shes been busy ill ask her today). This year, on Valentine’s Day, my mom gave me a special bracelet. It was a simple red thread with a little charm that looked like an eye. I recognized the charm but I wasn’t too sure what it was or meant. I asked about it and the charm protects you against “Mal de ojo” or evil eye. It is supposed to protect you against bad spirits or people who wish misfortune upon you. I wear this bracelet every day.

All these superstitions got me thinking, what superstitions do other cultures have around campus? A Chaldean superstition is that if you whistle at night the devil will get you. Vera Azmaru (21) vividly remembers her mom and aunt scolding her for whistling at night, and warning her that the devil will take her away. Azmaru says that this superstition has followed her all her life. Some other Chaldean superstitions I was told about is that if your right hand itches, it means you will receive money soon.