All it takes is a reframe, right? By writing 13 down in computer code (Base 2), not a shiver runs up or down our spine. 1101.
But, we have our share of illogic running rampant from sea to shining sea. Climate change is a hoax. GMO will kill you. Coronavirus is contained or a hoax- depending on the day of the week. Or, this one- cutting taxes to zero will raise more revenue for the US.
Why should a sentient being be surprised that folks are gripped by paraskevidekatriaphobia right now?
Yep. Today is Friday the 13th. And, folks are afraid of their shadows- and everything else. Really, now…
How many of you are like me who find it hilarious that we have buildings with a missing 13th floor? Like calling the thirteenth story the 14th floor is going to change how things are.
What you may not know is that this rabid fear is pretty new. Not only new- but it took the dawn of modern science, back in the late 19th century (the late 1800’s), to awaken this fear. You might also find it hilarious that, even back then, folks were complaining how fast things were changing.
As best as I can tell, triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13) is attributable to the crucifixion of Jesus. There were 13 folks who watched this event- and this event occurred on a Friday. (By the way, if this is true, then the genealogy provided for Jesus’ birth and death are in trouble. Because the crucifixion would not have occurred on a Friday if Jesus really was born in the year 0. But, that doesn’t change the irrational fear of 13 in any way.)
Or, maybe the fear of the number 13 started in the 14th century (making it during the 1300s!) when folks thought starting new projects on a Friday would bring about their demise. As would the outcome of any trip beginning on a Friday. (You have to check Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales to find those references.)
Nevertheless, it seems paraskevidekatriaphobia really took off in the 20th Century.
But, guess what. It’s the 21st century. It’s time to put childish things to bed. Enjoy your Friday 13th of March all day. Oh, it’s also the 18th day of Adar. Which means only 23 more days until Pesach (Passover)!
This 13th fear is strange really. Interesting post.
I’m with you, Dr. A!
It was hard to enjoy this day in some ways but it was also sunny and the crocuses are blooming. I am not frightened of the number 13. I’m more frightened of the underwhelming (until recently) reactions of a certain administration to a new viral menace.
Alana recently posted..No Superstition Sky #SkywatchFriday
I wish it were only until recently, Alana…
I didn’t even realize it was the 13th – and on a Friday at that! LOL
Et, voila! Perfect response to the irrational fear.
13 is on of my lucky numbers! Never bothered me, but it does bother me that so many condos in MB leave off the 13th floor. How do you get to 14 if you can’t pass 13?
Martha recently posted..National Children’s Craft Day
I never figured that out either, Martha. I always wondered how they learned to count.
for me this date is not a date when I afraid. it is a day as each other
Glad to hear that, Karin! Thanks for the visit.