When we hear about Friday the 13th, usually the first thing that comes to mind is the American Horror Franchise that follows the story of the deranged maniac, Jason Voorhees. Despite our familiarity of the movie, we seem to forget why the movies were called “Friday the 13th” in the first place.
Why was the movie series called Friday the 13th? You might think it has something to do with each movie taking place on Friday the 13th, similar to how Halloween was named Halloween because every movie took place during and around Halloween. That’s not the case here. The movies were named Friday the 13th for one reason: to be catchy and to hook viewers. It’s far more interesting sounding than the movie’s working title: “A Long Night at Camp Blood”. Despite the reasoning behind the movie’s name, has the movie given people more reasons to believe the superstitions behind the date? Where did these superstitions even come from?
The truth is, nobody quite knows why Friday the 13th is considered a superstitious day. There are many theories on the origin of Friday the 13th. Friday and the number 13 are considered unlucky by many, and when the two join together it is considered the most unluckiest of days. Records show there have been no signs of anyone considering Friday the 13th as a superstitious day until the 19th century.
Though this is common knowledge to many, not everyone thinks Friday the 13th is unlucky, in fact, some people don’t even think about it. Spanish-speaking countries have Tuesday the 13th, because Tuesday is considered unlucky in that culture. The Greeks also consider Tuesday the 13th unlucky. Italian’s have Friday the 17th. Ironically, the number 13 is considered a lucky number for many Italians.
Whatever you may believe, there has been many people who have died on Friday the 13th, such as Tupac (who’s death is shrouded in conspiracy), and Hubert Humphrey, the 38th Vice President of the United States. Other strange things have happened on Friday the 13th, such as the birth of the Olsen twins, the fall of the Aztec Empire, and the disappearance of a Swedish Military plane, also known as the Catalina Affair.
To some, Friday the 13th is considered the most feared date in history. Some people are known to actually fear Friday the 13th so much, that doctors have given it a name: Friggatriskaidekaphobia. Mr. Miller says, “I do not believe that Friday the 13th is unlucky. This has a lot to do with my faith in The Grand Architect of the Universe being all powerful and able to supply all our needs.” And, “I am a Christian and I put no credence in such superstitions.” Mr. Parker also stated he did not believe Friday the 13th to be unlucky. But the real question is… What does the rest of Bob Jones think?
Do you believe Friday the 13th to be unlucky?
- No (74%, 54 Votes)
- Yes (26%, 19 Votes)
Total Voters: 73
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