Black cats, broken mirrors and crows freak people out but they are a few of the very well-known superstitions worldwide. What you probably don’t know is that there are hundreds of bizarre superstitions all around the world. Here are some of the weirdest superstitions we found.
By Mariam Elhamy
Never Say “Happy Birthday” Too Early
In Russia, it is considered bad luck to celebrate or even congratulate someone on a birthday before the day arrives. weirdest superstitions
Don’t Place Two Mirrors Opposite Each Other
In Mexico, and elsewhere, facing two mirrors in front of each other opens a doorway for the devil.
Never Stick Your Chopstick Straight Up
Poking chopsticks down into your food is a big no-no in Japan because they look like the unlucky number four, according to the Japanese; which means death, and also the incense sticks used at funerals.weirdest superstitions
Don’t Go Right Home After a Funeral
In the Philippines, a tradition called “pagpag” dictates that people never go straight back home after a wake. Otherwise, a bad spirit might tag along and come inside. We’re guessing it’s better that you take the bad spirits with you to places.weirdest superstitions
Don’t Make a Toast With Water
In Germany, a superstition claims that if you toast with water it’s as if you’re wishing death upon the people you’re drinking with. It stems from Greek mythology. Cheers!
Watch Out For Itchy Hands
Step in Dog Poop As Much As You Can
In France, stepping in dog poop with your left foot is actually considered good luck. It’s only bad luck if you step with your right foot. And in Russia, bird poop that lands on you or something that belongs to you will bring you wealth. weirdest superstitions
Don’t Get a Haircut on Tuesdays
Getting a haircut on a Tuesday in India will cause bad luck.
Don’t Give Yellow Flowers To A Russian
Gifting yellow flowers in Russia means that you’re cursing your friend with infidelity.
Spilling Water Behind Someone Is a Nice Gesture
In Serbia, it’s good luck if you drip water behind a person as they leave.
Pregnant Women Should Give Into Their Cravings and Not Eat Weirdly Shaped Food
There’s a Canadian superstition that pregnant women who are craving fish but don’t eat it will end up having a baby with a fish head. While in Korea, eating Asymmetrical food means you will end up with an ugly baby.
Don’t Walk Backwards
In Portugal, it’s considered bad luck to walk backwards. The common belief is that if you do, you’re showing the devil which way you’re going.
