Kolkata, March 13: For centuries, Friday the 13th has been associated with bad luck, superstition, and mysterious folklore. Many people around the world still view the date with unease, even though there is no scientific evidence linking it to misfortune. In 2026, the superstition has drawn renewed attention because the calendar includes three occurrences of Friday the 13th, in February, March, and November.

Religious Origins of the Friday the 13th Superstition

Much of the fear surrounding Friday the 13th is rooted in Christian tradition. One commonly cited origin comes from the story of the Last Supper. According to biblical accounts, 13 people sat at the table, Jesus Christ and his 12 disciples, on the night before the crucifixion. Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus, is often believed to have been the 13th guest. Friday the 13th Superstition: Why Is Friday 13th Considered Unlucky? Can This Date Bring You Bad Omen? Origins, History and Myths You Must Know.

Over time, this association helped turn the number 13 into a symbol of betrayal and misfortune in Western culture.

Why the Number 13 Is Seen as Unlucky

Historically, the number 12 has been considered a symbol of completeness and order. It appears repeatedly in religion, mythology, and everyday life. There are 12 months in a year, 12 zodiac signs, and 12 tribes of Israel in the Bible. Friday The 13th Superstitions: Why 2026 is a 'Triple Threat' Year.

Because of this long standing symbolism, the number 13 came to be seen as disrupting the natural order, giving rise to the belief that it brings bad luck.

The Knights Templar Arrest That Strengthened the Myth

A major historical event often linked to the superstition occurred on Friday, October 13, 1307. On that day, King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of hundreds of members of the Knights Templar, a powerful Catholic military order.

The knights were accused of corruption and heresy, though many historians believe the charges were politically motivated, as the king owed large debts to the order. Many members were tortured and executed, including Grand Master Jacques de Molay. According to legend, de Molay placed a curse on those responsible for the persecution before his death, further cementing Friday the 13th as a day of misfortune in European folklore.

Unlucky Dates Around the World

The fear of Friday the 13th is mainly found in English speaking countries. Other cultures associate bad luck with different dates.

In Greece and many Spanish speaking countries, Tuesday the 13th is considered the unluckiest day. In Italy, the number 17 is traditionally feared, making Friday the 17th the day linked to bad omens.

Paraskevidekatriaphobia: The Fear of Friday the 13th

The superstition surrounding the date is so widespread that it even has a scientific name, paraskevidekatriaphobia. The term refers to an intense or irrational fear of Friday the 13th.

Psychologists say that such fears are often driven by cultural conditioning and long standing myths rather than real world evidence.

Why the Superstition Still Exists Today

Despite the lack of proof that Friday the 13th brings bad luck, the superstition continues to influence modern life. Many skyscrapers skip the 13th floor, hotels avoid room number 13, and some airlines do not have a row 13.

Some people also postpone travel, business deals, or important decisions on the date, showing how deeply rooted the belief remains.

Whether seen as folklore or superstition, Friday the 13th continues to capture public curiosity, proving that historical narratives and cultural myths can have a lasting influence even in modern times.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 13, 2026 12:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).