Fact or Fiction: Ukrainian Traditions on Friday the 13th
Friday the 13th is a day shrouded in mystery and superstition, and Ukraine is no exception to its eerie reputation. While some brush it off as just another day, others hold fast to ancient beliefs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. In this post, we’ll delve into the origins of Friday the 13th in Ukraine, explore the superstitions surrounding it, and uncover whether these beliefs are rooted in fact or fiction. Are these traditions still followed, or are they fading into folklore? Let’s find out!
Contents
History
Історія
Friday the 13th has roots that reach deep into the shadowy corners of history, with the first references dating back to the Middle Ages. The number “13” was often viewed with fear and suspicion, earning the nickname “the bloody dozen.” It was said that on this ominous date, witches and sorcerers would convene in groups of twelve, with Satan himself arriving as the dreaded thirteenth guest.
Christianity further cemented Friday the 13th’s eerie reputation by tying it to significant, ominous events in the Bible. Judas, the betrayer of Jesus, was the thirteenth apostle. According to legend, Adam and Eve tasted the forbidden fruit on the 13th. Even more chilling, Jesus was crucified on a Friday, and it’s believed that Cain killed his brother Abel on the same day. These dark associations have fuelled the superstition and fear surrounding Friday the 13th for centuries.
Divination
Ворожіння
The ideal time for divination is in the late evening, around 10 or 11 o’clock. Use a deep bowl and fill it with water. Place a church candle nearby. If you’re wearing a cross or ring, be sure to remove them beforehand.
Divination with a cat:
Divination is performed specifically on Friday the 13th in the morning. As soon as you wake up, call your cat into your room and make a wish. If the cat enters the room using its right paw, your wish is likely to come true. If it steps in with its left paw, the wish may not be fulfilled.
Fortune telling with cards:
Card fortune-telling is a popular practice on Friday the 13th. It is widely believed that this mystical day enhances the accuracy of card readings, with the results are likely to be revealed sooner. You can perform divination in various ways: by laying out solitaires, guessing a card for a loved one, or making a fate chart. However, a few essential rules must be followed for accurate results: The deck used for divination should be new and unused. If a new deck is unavailable, you may use a deck of playing cards, but only after they have been placed under the weight of an un-kissed girl. It is considered a positive omen if a cat or kitten is present in the room during the reading, as this is believed to enhance the effectiveness of the divination.
Using a mirror:
One of the most unsettling rituals is performed on Friday the 13th at night. There are different variations of this method, and both are said in folklore to be dangerous – so use them at your own risk!
1. To begin, use wax candle to draw 13 crosses on the surface of a mirror. Remove any tablecloth from the table and place lit candles around the mirror. Ask the mirror 13 times what the future holds for you. Afterward, eat a pinch of salt and drink a glass of water. At this point, you should start seeing various visions in the mirror’s depths that may reveal glimpses of your future. If nothing appears, turn the mirror upside down and place it back on the table, then observe your dreams that night for insights.
2. After midnight on Friday the 13th, close all the windows in your home, remove the tablecloth from the table, and set a mirror on it. Take a church candle and draw 13 crosses in the air. Position the candle between yourself and the mirror, then gaze at the reflection for 13 minutes. During this time, you should see images and figures in the mirror that may answer your questions. If nothing appears, wrap the mirror in a white cloth and place it under your pillow; the answers may then come to you in a dream.
What Not to Do on Friday the 13th
Чого не варто робити в п’ятницю, 13-го
- You cannot cut your nails as some believe this will shorten your life expectancy.
- Do not pass under any ladders or poles. If this is unavoidable, you should cross your fingers whilst you do so.
- It’s best to steer clear of black cats, as ancient beliefs held that they bring bad omens. However, if a black cat does cross your path, tradition suggests crossing your fingers and spitting over your left shoulder to ward off any misfortune.
- It is wise to avoid starting new ventures, particularly those involving significant amounts of money.
- Planning a wedding on Friday the 13th is thought to result in an unreliable marriage.
- It is believed that plants should not be planted, as they are unlikely to bear fruit.
Omens and Superstitions
Прикмети та забобони
There are lots of omens surrounding Friday the 13th, some of which are still followed, whether consciously or subconsciously:
- It’s believed that plants sown on Friday the 13th won’t grow or bear fruit.
- Many believe that car accidents are more common on this day, so make sure to be extra careful on the road.
Your Traditions
Ваші традиції
Do you have unique traditions or rituals for Friday the 13th? Whether you grew up hearing family stories or follow certain superstitions, we want to hear about them! From avoiding specific activities to performing good luck charms, everyone has their own way of navigating this famously eerie day. Share your traditions, superstitions, and personal stories with us—we’d love to know how you and your family mark Friday the 13th!
Discover More Ukrainian Superstitions
Curious to learn more about the rich world of Ukrainian superstitions? From quirky customs to deep-rooted beliefs, there’s so much more to explore. Head over to our post on 10 Ukrainian Superstitions and dive deeper into the traditions that have shaped Ukraine’s cultural heritage for generations. Expand your knowledge and discover even more about Ukraine!
