What is Superstition?
Superstition describes behaviors, words, or rituals that are thought to have a “special” effect, even though they are not based on a scientific basis . When uncertainties frighten people and the need to control them arises, people turn to superstitions. In this way, they experience temporary relief. These temporary beliefs later turn into permanent beliefs.
Types of Superstitions
The fact that the planet is a place with many voices has also increased superstitions. We create a superstition almost every year. Because as humans, we try to control our desires and fears in some way. And it cannot be said that we always achieve this with reason and logic. Since we have opened the door to superstitions, their number and variety are quite high. Let’s take a look at the types of superstitions.
Traditional Superstitions
There are also some common beliefs in the world. They may vary by region, but the logic is similar.
- Good Luck: Wishing good luck to someone who is starting a business.
- Black cat : If it blocks your path, it brings bad luck.
- Breaking a mirror means seven years of bad luck.
- Don’t walk under ladders : A fear that goes back to the gallows.
- We laughed so much : Thinking that something bad will happen after laughing so much.
Religious Superstitions
Although it is not correct to consider religious beliefs as superstitions, technically superstitions can be seen to affect religions. However, in terms of freedom of belief, it is necessary to understand those who practice such rituals.
- rosary beads is a ritual to ward off evil eyes, troubles and demons. Blowing on
- They believe that rubbing a lottery ticket on the tomb wall increases luck.
- Carrying stones, trees, soil or amulets thought to be prayers for abundance.
- The belief that hanging crocus flowers , evil eye beads, horseshoes, elephants and rice grains on the door of a house will keep away harmful events and spirits.
- Houses with cats and dogs are considered unlucky because angels will not enter them.
Technological / Digital Superstitions
Even in developing societies, it is possible to encounter certain superstitions. Superstitions are a sign of the creativity of the human brain.
- 404 Bad Luck : Seeing the “404 Not Found” error is considered a sign of a bad day.
- The Curse of “It Works!” : Saying “everything is OK” when a software is working without any problems invites errors.
- Blowing out the cartridge : The belief is that blowing out old game cartridges will “realign” the electronic connection.
- Number 13: After the Apollo 13 rocket crashed, the 13th floor was left vacant in some buildings.
Social Media Rituals
Social media influencers or some pages start social superstitions. Followers carry this ritual from generation to generation.
- Emoji magic : Sharing symbols like the unicorn attracts good luck and interaction.
- Hashtag magic : The #opportunity hashtag calls for success.
- Timing obsession : The belief that posting at exactly 11:11 has special power.
- Ancient numbers: Keeping certain numbers away or close by thinking of them as positive or negative.
Modern Social Myths
- New Year rituals : Eating 12 grapes or wearing red underwear brings luck.
- GPS superstition when signal is lost : Driver myths like “always turn right ”.
- Positive message to the universe : Thus, people expect a positive return from the universe.
Superstition Generation – Create Your Own Ritual
Superstitions can also be created for fun. Yes, because when you learn about some superstitions, you may think that someone created them just for fun. We explained the steps of creating superstitions to help with this.
1. Set Intention
What uncertainty do you want to eliminate or what “chance” do you want to invite? Or create something powerful to overcome a fear. The important thing is to solve a problem. Method comes second.
2. Design the Ritual
Create a simple, repeatable list of steps (e.g. knock on a door three times every morning ). Or open and close your eyes three times and start a task. Or say a name and believe that it will give you power. It’s all up to your creative mind.
3. Add a Symbolic Element
Choose a color , object or word for your ritual . For example, the color of your superstition could be red, or green or even yellow. There will be many people who use blue anyway. For example, it could be an eraser in this word . If you write a ritual to erase the past, an eraser would be effective, or water. The choice of words is also important. The shape of the letters will also be effective in creating a detailed superstition . Don’t limit yourself to these.
4. Community Support
Test the collective belief by sharing it on social media, with groups of friends or with your family. The easiest way is to perform the ritual at the peak of an event in a video. For example, someone taking an exam takes the air from the exam paper and slaps it in front of their face. Or before going to sleep, they lean back against the wall, open their arms to the sides and “hey ”… smile while saying
5. Evolve
Develop the ritual over time based on your feedback and experience. Take the first step small and then add new ones. This will capture the spirit of superstition creation.
6. Be honest
Let your followers know that you created this ritual yourself and that it is intended for relaxation and fun .
7. Don’t exaggerate
Be careful not to violate human rights or the law. The purpose is to have fun and be useful to people, please remember that.
8. Let It Be Joyful
Always have lots of fun with all the new superstitions. Help make the world a happier place.
The Fun and Risky Side of Superstitions
New generation superstitions can thus be a source of comfort and joy to people. It can improve social ties worldwide. It can have a positive effect on developing the human mind and perhaps even create a reason to go into space. Don’t let these new generation superstitions be limited to the world. (Like horoscopes)
- Relaxing Effect: Provides short-term morale and hope in times of uncertainty and chaos.
- Social Bonding: Shared rituals strengthen group belonging, perhaps even promoting planetary peace.
- Closed Mindset (Attention): The feeling of “I didn’t follow the ritual, I’m not lucky” takes responsibility away from the person and puts it on the belief. Immediately patch up this negative ritual and develop a positive outlook.
- Philosophical Trap: (Beware) Being trapped in rituals you create can restrict life within “ritual chains.” Remember, start with fun and benefit and don’t stray from that path. Problems are natural and necessary because growth depends on it.
Are Universal Wishes Also Considered False?
“Good luck”, “Good luck”, “May luck be with you”… Saying these sentences may seem like an example of social courtesy, but technically they are modern superstitions . They have no scientific effect, but they are comforting when said. In fact, some people do not start an exam, a match or an important task without hearing these words. Because they give a mental feeling of “power and protection”. In other words, every “good luck” message is like a tiny placebo. The drug has no effect, but it instills faith, which is good for the soul and the body can be positively affected by this and indirectly turn into a physical benefit.
In this context, if you add your creative new generation beliefs in the comments, we will be very happy to read them.
Have fun… Good luck!
Stay well.