10 Common Superstitions With Totally Bizarre Origins

3. Breaking a Mirror

The belief that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck is a superstition that has its roots in ancient Roman culture. The Romans believed that mirrors had the power to capture a person's soul, and breaking a mirror was thought to harm the soul trapped within it. The number seven was considered significant due to the belief that it took seven years for life to renew itself, thus the bad luck would last until the soul was restored. This superstition was further perpetuated during the Renaissance when mirrors became more common and valuable household items. The high cost of mirrors meant that breaking one was a significant financial loss, which may have contributed to the belief in bad luck. Over time, the superstition has evolved, with various rituals and remedies emerging to counteract the bad luck, such as burying the broken pieces in moonlight or throwing them into running water. The superstition surrounding broken mirrors highlights the interplay between cultural beliefs, economic factors, and psychological fears, illustrating how superstitions can evolve and adapt to new contexts.