Friday the 13th is considered unlucky due to a combination of historical superstitions surrounding both Fridays and the number 13.
Here's a breakdown:
The Number 13
- Bad Omen: The number 13 has long been considered unlucky in many Western cultures.
- Last Supper Connection: One theory links the fear of 13 to the Last Supper. There were 13 individuals present (Jesus and his 12 apostles), and this event is believed to have given rise to a Christian superstition that having 13 guests at a table was a bad omen—specifically, that it was courting death.
Friday
- Religious Significance: Historically, Friday has been associated with negative events in Christianity, such as the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Good Friday.
The Combination
When Friday and the 13th of the month coincide, the negative connotations of both combine, creating a day many people view with superstition and fear.