Friday the 13th is a date shrouded in superstition and intrigue. Here are five fun facts about this notorious date:
Fear of Friday the 13th has a name: This specific fear is called "paraskevidekatriaphobia," a term coined by Dr. Donald Dossey, a phobia specialist. It's a specialized form of triskaidekaphobia, a fear of the number thirteen. It's estimated that 17 to 21 million people in the United States are affected by a fear of this day, making it the most feared day and date in history.
Impact on the economy: It's been estimated that $700-$800 million is lost in business today because people hesitate to make big purchases and decisions on this supposedly unlucky date. Many will refrain from flying, making important decisions, or even working, which affects businesses and, in turn, impacts the economy.
Rare occurrence: Any month starting on a Sunday will have a Friday the 13th. The date can occur up to three times a year, and it's possible for it not to happen at all in a given year. The most prolonged period that can occur without a Friday the 13th is 14 months.
The Knights Templar connection: One theory for the origin of the superstition stems from Friday, October 13, 1307, when King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of the Knights Templar, a monastic military order. The knights were tortured and killed, which led to the belief that the day is cursed.
Notable cultural impact: Friday the 13th has inspired a successful horror movie franchise, which began with the film "Friday the 13th" in 1980. The franchise mainly focuses on the fictional character Jason Voorhees, who drowned as a boy at Camp Crystal Lake due to the negligence of camp staff. The day and the number 13 are so embedded in global culture that they inspire superstitions, movies, books, and memes worldwide.
Despite the superstitions, Friday the 13th is just another day for many people. In contrast, others have begun to reclaim the date as a day for celebrating luck or engaging in quirky traditions.
Commentaires