Why is Friday the 13th Unlucky?

…or is it?

Friday the 13th is considered unlucky in English, French, and Portuguese-speaking countries as well as much of Europe. (In Italy, Friday the 17th is unlucky, but that’s another post.) The supersition of Friday the 13th has its roots in ancient, pagan times when both the sixth day of the week and the number 13 were considered unlucky. Several myths/legends revolve around Friday the 13th.

• Some say it comes from the story of Jesus’ death (on a Friday) and the Last Supper (where the 13th man, Judas, betrayed Jesus)
• There is a similar story in Norse mythology, where the 13th god at dinner betrayed the group.
• Dan Brown, in “The Da Vinci Code” points to the fact that French King, Philip IV betrayed the Knights Templar on October 13, 1307 (a Friday).

Whatever the story, it’s estimated that more than 21 million people have “Paraskevidekatriaphobia,” an unrational fear of Friday the 13th. Many buildings lack a 13th floor and cities often go from 12th to 14th Street.

Interested in still more Friday the 13th theories, visit David Emery’s About.com Urban Legends site for more about the myth and the reality of this holiday.

^{(photo © Newscom)}