Turkish superstitions: what locals believe and fear
Turkish superstitions: what locals believe and fear
Did you know that the Turks are quite superstitious people? Who fears not only Allah, but also black cats and even shooting stars. All kinds of fears, superstitions, and signs have been formed here for centuries and for a long time occupied a significant place in the life of the southern people.
So what are Turkish residents afraid of and what do they believe in? Let's figure it out.
Turkish culture is a vibrant mosaic composed of different civilizations
Despite the fact that the Republic of Turkey is a fairly young country - it is not even 100 years old, life has been in full swing on these lands for at least 10,000 years. During this time, about thirty civilizations have changed here, each of which has left its mark.
And all this, of course, was reflected in some way on Turkish culture, including the formation of signs and superstitions.
Surprisingly, all superstitions in Turkey have regional characteristics. What is considered a bad omen in one part of the country may be considered a good omen in another.
But the main signs and fears are the same for all people.
Signs of men and women
Some signs in Turkey are associated either only with men or only with women.
If you are walking with a girlfriend, do not be surprised if the young man coming towards you suddenly changes direction, because walking between two women is a sure sign of losing authority. They also say that a guy who passes between two girls will be left without a beard.
If a woman crosses a man's path, misfortune awaits him.
But if a woman passes between two men, she faces the risk of remaining childless.
Another “feminine” sign: if a lady drank only half a glass of the tea offered to her, then she will soon become a widow.
Afraid of shooting stars and black cats
We are used to the fact that if a star falls, we need to make a wish. But things are not so rosy for the Turks. A luminary flying across the sky signals that at that moment someone has died.
But being born on a full moon means a happy life. And the future for this person will be bright. This is especially true for girls. If a representative of the fair sex was born on a full moon, it means that she should be as beautiful and bright as the moon.
You should also not swear or spit in the direction of the moon - this will bring misfortune. And the Turks also believe that you should not look in the mirror at night - your life will be short.
Signs associated with animals
Like us, the Turks have a black cat as an animal that brings misfortune. Few people would agree to keep such a pet in the house. That's why little blacks often end up on the streets because they can't find owners.
It is also believed that if a bride steps on a cat before the wedding, misfortune awaits her in her family life.
Dogs barking in the middle of the night, and even cows mooing in the dark for no reason, also promise misfortune.
If a dog starts barking while looking at the sky, it means someone’s blood will be shed.
The main amulet of the Turks is Nazar Bonjuk
Like any superstitious people, the Turks came up with an amulet that protects against the evil eye and all misfortunes - nazar bonjuk. The blue glass “eye” has become an indispensable accessory for all homes, offices, shops and cars.
It is believed that this amulet collects all the negative energy, and when it is full, it simply bursts or is lost.
By the way, if ordinary glass breaks next to a person, this also indicates that he had a very strong evil eye. Therefore, the fragments must be collected and taken away from the house.
Other signs and superstitions
If you have been to Turkish weddings, you may have noticed that after registration, the bride and groom are in a hurry to step on each other’s feet. The thing is that there is another sign: whoever is in time first will be the main one in the family.
Another interesting superstition says that someone leaving on the road needs to pour water after them. So that the path is easy and the traveler returns quickly.
By the way, some Turkish superstitions are the direct opposite of ours. For example, sewing things up on yourself attracts good luck.
Whistling at home is also not prohibited (but not at night). The left palm of the Turks itches for expenses and big expenses. And the right palm is for money.
In Turkey, a guy can easily give his girlfriend a bouquet of an even number of flowers. And wreaths are brought to weddings and joyful events.
Of course, in modern society many signs have long been ignored. But in the Turkish hinterlands, many still live with an eye on superstitions.
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