Friday the 13th Superstitions and Beliefs
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Questions and Answers

What psychological condition describes the fear of the number 13?

  • Septophobia
  • Triskaidekaphobia (correct)
  • Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia
  • Pentaphobia

Which of the following theories attributes the unluckiness of the number 13 to it being 'incomplete'?

  • The biblical interpretation
  • Donald Dossey's theory
  • Thomas Fernsler's theory (correct)
  • A folklore legend

According to the Scandinavian legend mentioned, who is the trickster god that attended the dinner of the 12 Norse gods?

  • Odin
  • Thor
  • Loki (correct)
  • Fenrir

What historical event is thought to have occurred on a Friday that contributes to its negative associations?

<p>The crucifixion of Jesus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one estimated economic impact of Friday the 13th on businesses in the US?

<p>Loss of approximately $900 million (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common misconception about Friday the 13th?

<p>It is an auspicious day for business discounts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which day is correlated with the biblical narrative of Eve tempting Adam and is associated with misfortune?

<p>Friday (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What statistically surprising finding was reported regarding incidents on Friday the 13th?

<p>Fewer traffic accidents occurred (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Triskaidekaphobia

The fear of the number 13.

Why is 13 considered unlucky?

Some believe 13 is 'incomplete' following the 'complete' number 12, which represents things like the 12 months, zodiac signs, and apostles.

Scandinavian Legend

A Norse myth where Loki tricks the god of darkness into killing the god of joy, resulting in the number 13 being associated with bad luck.

Friday's bad reputation

Friday is associated with negative events, including Jesus' crucifixion and Adam and Eve's son killing his brother Abel.

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Friday the 13th's impact

It's estimated that over 20 million Americans experience anxiety on this day, leading to increased accidents and economic loss.

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Friday the 13th: Fact vs. Fiction

A 2008 study found that Friday the 13th actually has fewer traffic accidents, fires, and thefts than other Fridays.

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Friday the 13th: Opportunity?

Some businesses offer discounts on this day to encourage shopping, turning the perceived bad luck into a potential profit.

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What does Friday the 13th symbolize?

It represents the power of superstition and how deeply ingrained fears can influence our behavior, even impacting the economy.

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Study Notes

Friday the 13th Superstition

  • Friday the 13th is considered unlucky by millions worldwide.
  • The origins of the superstition are not definitively known.

Triskaidekaphobia

  • Triskaidekaphobia is the fear of the number 13.
  • The number 13 is often perceived as incomplete due to the number 12 being considered complete (e.g., 12 months, 12 apostles).

Historical and Religious Connections

  • Jesus was crucified on a Friday (not specifically Friday the 13th).
  • Some believe Eve tempted Adam on a Friday.
  • One historical event linked to Friday the 13th is the murder of Abel by Cain.

Scandinavian Legend

  • A Scandinavian legend links the number 13 to the Norse God Loki influencing the killing of Balder.

Economic Impact

  • Businesses lose an estimated $900 million due to avoidance of purchases, travel, and work on Friday the 13th.
  • A 2008 study found no statistically significant increase in accidents, fires, or thefts on Friday the 13th compared to other Fridays.

Potential for Positive Outcomes

  • Some businesses offer discounts to encourage shopping on Friday the 13th.

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Description

Explore the fascinating world of Friday the 13th and the superstitions surrounding it. Learn about triskaidekaphobia, historical connections, and even the economic impacts of this day. Delve into legends and beliefs that shape how many perceive this date as unlucky.

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