CHASING FORTUNE
Unravel the Mystery Behind These 10 Lucky Symbols!
Published on May 10, 2024
Credit: Malvestida
Throughout history, humans have sought guidance from signs and symbols , seeking to navigate the unpredictable course of fate . From the classic four-leaf clover to the comfort of that "lucky shirt" worn on exam days or job interviews, even the most determined skeptics find themselves turning to luck at some point.
But what mysteries are hidden beneath these legendary symbols? If you want to feel that luck is on your side, delve into the history of superstition as we uncover the captivating origins of these 10 universal symbols of good luck!
Ladybug
Credit: Greg Rosenke
Have you ever had the lovely experience of a ladybug landing on you and strolling across your skin? If so, consider yourself one of the fortunate! Ladybugs, those charming little insects, have long been adored as symbols of luck and protection.
Legend has it that during the Middle Ages in Europe, farmers revered ladybugs as protectors of their crops , as these tiny creatures voraciously devoured the pests that threatened the crops. Over time, ladybugs became synonymous with good fortune, bringing prosperity to those who encountered them.
Today, it's believed that if a ladybug lands on you, you should make a wish and let it fly away.
Horseshoe
Credit: Jan Huber
The horseshoe stands as another renowned emblem of good fortune, with many people opting to sport horseshoe-shaped tattoos or pendants for that reason.
Also rooted in Europe's Middle Ages , the horseshoe's association with good luck can be attributed to both its distinctive crescent moon shape and the material from which it was made .
Iron was believed to have the power to repel negative energies and ward off evil spirits , giving the horseshoe its reputation as a protective talisman . Therefore, horseshoes were often hung on doorways and rooms, serving as symbolic guardians.
Number 7
Credit: Waldemar
In different parts of the world, the number 7 has been respected as a symbol of auspiciousness and abundance, becoming a sacred number for some cultures.
Its origins are varied, but many have to do with the presence of this number in nature, science, and religion . To name a few examples, there are seven colors of the rainbow, seven Christian virtues, seven continents, seven seas, seven wonders of the world, seven days of the week, and the list goes on.
So now you know, if you come across this number frequently, embrace the blessings it brings!
Wishbone
Credit: Claudio Schwarz
The practice of letting the wishbone dry and then breaking it while making a wish can be traced back to ancient times , with roots in the traditions of the Romans and Etruscans . These ancient cultures held birds in high regard, believing them to possess protective and divinatory powers . Hence, the wishbone came to be associated with the granting of wishes.
As European settlers brought their customs to America , they carried the tradition of breaking wishbones, which quickly became a popular convention here, persisting to this day.
Elephant
Credit: Nam Anh
Elephants have long been revered as symbols of abundance and prosperity , particularly in Asia, where they hold sacred status, especially in India . Their association with religious imagery has cemented their role as bearers of good fortune . As this belief transcended borders, the elephant's reputation for luck spread to other corners of the globe.
In the Western world, while the original religious connotations may have faded, the elephant retained its fame as an announcer of positivity. Thus, giving or receiving an elephant-shaped object is widely regarded as an auspicious gesture.
Conch shell
Credit: George Girnas
Some coastal cultures in the Caribbean revere conch shells for their beauty and the enchanting sounds they produce, attributing them with magical properties . Consequently, shells are worn as talismans , used as decorative elements for protection , or implemented as ceremonial instruments.
In the Hindu religion , conch shells are considered sacred objects that symbolize creation , often depicted alongside divine figures . And if you ever listened to the sound of the ocean by holding a conch shell to your ear, it is easy to understand why they are held in such high regard.
Rabbit's foot
Credit: Ансплэш Степана
Carrying around a rabbit's foot in your backpack might look a bit odd or even gruesometo some, but the prevalence of this lucky charm might surprise you. The origins of the rabbit's foot as a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and even fertility are difficult to trace, as it is a widespread tradition throughout the globe, both in the East and the West.
The specific rituals surrounding this charm can vary, with different regions attributing diverse types of fortune to it, based on how the rabbit was caught and how the paw is kept. However, these interpretations differ significantly depending on the cultural context.
Barnstar
Credit: Joe Dudeck
You've likely caught sight of a five-pointed star adorning a barn door or even gracing some home entrances in certain parts of our country. But do you know the story behind these lucky charms ? The barnstar emerged in American farm culture during the 18th and 19th centuries , believed to bring protection and good fortune to the homestead.
Similar to the horseshoe tradition, barnstars were often placed above doorways to ward off malevolent spirits and safeguard the household from evil intentions, protecting the good energy. So, if your home's door is lacking this auspicious adornment, maybe it's time to consider acquiring one, what do you think?
Jade
Credit: Jurga Ka
Jade is one of the gemstones associated with good luck. This shiny green stone, available in various hues, has been recognized as a lucky charm for centuries, particularly in Eastern cultures.
In many countries, it's customary to give jade jewelry as a gift on special occasions, as this stone is also believed to possess healing properties! So, not only does it protect and attract positivity into your life , but it is also a stylish accessory that keeps you on-trend.
Four-leaf Clover
Credit: Yan Ming
Saving the best for last, let's talk about the iconic four-leaf clover , renowned as one of the most celebrated symbols of good fortune worldwide. Its reputation is tied to its defining characteristic: rarity.
While three-leaf clovers hold their own charm, coming across a four-leaf clover is a great stroke of luck. With origins in Celtic culture , this belief has transcended cultural boundaries. Whether tucked inside books for years, fashioned into talismans , or immortalized in the skin as tattoos , the four-leaf clover is ever-present in humans' quest for good fortune and blessings.