In the article “10 Superstitions You Grow Up Listening to In Turkey,” the author explores some of the most popular superstitions in Turkish culture. From wearing evil eye charms to protect against envy to buttoning up coats in a certain way, these superstitions have been passed down through generations. Discover the beliefs and customs that shape the lives of many Turks and gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.
The Evil Eye
The evil eye holds great meaning and significance in Turkish culture. It is believed that when someone feels envy towards another person, they can cause bad luck and misfortune. To counteract this negative energy, many Turks wear evil eyes as protection. The evil eye charms can be found all over Turkey and are believed to cancel out any potential bad stare from others. In order to avoid attracting unnecessary attention and potential bad luck, Turks also refrain from openly talking about their happiness. This superstition highlights the importance of protecting oneself from the harmful effects of envy.
Wearing Evil Eyes for Protection
The belief in the power of the evil eye has led to the widespread practice of wearing evil eye charms for protection. These charms are often in the form of blue beads with an eye symbol in the center. They can be worn as jewelry, hung in cars or homes, or even incorporated into clothing and accessories. The evil eye charms are believed to ward off any negative energy or bad luck caused by the evil eye. By wearing these charms, individuals hope to protect themselves from the harmful effects of envy and ensure their own well-being and good fortune.
Broken Glass
In Turkish culture, the breaking of glass holds a significant meaning related to the evil eye. When glass breaks, it is believed that the evil eye was so powerful that it caused the object to break. This broken object is then seen as a representation and manifestation of the bad luck caused by the evil eye. To prevent further negative consequences, it is important to dispose of the broken glass immediately, preferably far away from the home. This act of disposing broken items serves as a way to remove the bad energy associated with the evil eye and restore balance and protection.
Belief behind Broken Glass and the Evil Eye
The belief in the connection between broken glass and the evil eye stems from the idea that envy can have tangible and destructive effects. It is believed that when someone covets another person’s possessions or success, their negative energy can manifest into physical harm. Glass, being a fragile material, is seen as susceptible to the powerful energy of the evil eye. Therefore, when glass breaks, it is seen as proof that the evil eye was at work.
Proper Disposal of Broken Items
To ensure the removal of the negative energy caused by the evil eye, it is important to dispose of broken items properly. The broken glass should be discarded far from the home, preferably in a place where it will not pose any harm or danger. This act of disposal is seen as a way to physically distance oneself from the effects of the evil eye and prevent further misfortune. By taking this precaution, individuals aim to protect themselves and their surroundings from any potential harm caused by the evil eye.
Knocking on Wood
Knocking on wood is a widely practiced superstition in Turkish culture. It is believed that when a conversation turns towards something unfortunate or negative, knocking on wood three times can protect oneself or others from experiencing that misfortune. This act is seen as a way to ward off any potential bad luck or negative outcomes. By knocking on wood, individuals hope to counteract the negative energy and ensure their own well-being and the well-being of those around them.
Superstitious Belief in Knocking on Wood
The belief in knocking on wood is rooted in the idea that wood possesses protective and magical properties. Wood is seen as a natural material that can absorb and dispel negative energy. By physically connecting with wood through the act of knocking, individuals believe they can harness its positive qualities and deflect any potential harm. This superstition reflects the human desire to avoid unfortunate events and protect oneself from the unknown.
Protection from Unfortunate Events
By engaging in the act of knocking on wood, individuals hope to create a sense of protection and ward off any potential misfortune. This superstitious belief serves as a way to feel more in control of one’s destiny and to actively participate in the preservation of good fortune. By knocking on wood, individuals seek to bring positivity and good luck into their lives and to prevent any negative events from occurring.
Buttoning Up
In Turkish culture, there is a belief that buttoning up one’s coat while facing someone can close that person’s kısmet, which means their good fortune. Similarly, opening a lock above someone’s head with a prayer is believed to open that person’s kısmet. These customs reflect the belief in the power of actions and gestures in influencing the course of one’s life and fortune.
Customs Related to Buttoning Up Coat
Buttoning up one’s coat while facing someone is seen as a gesture that can trap and restrict the other person’s good fortune. By closing their kısmet, the person buttoning up their coat can potentially limit the opportunities and positive outcomes that the other person may experience. Similarly, opening a lock above someone’s head with a prayer is seen as a way to unlock and release their good fortune. These customs highlight the belief in the interconnectedness of actions and consequences.
Impact on the Person’s Good Fortune
The belief in the impact of buttoning up a coat or opening a lock above someone’s head suggests that small actions can have a significant influence on a person’s life and fortune. By being mindful of one’s actions and considering their potential effects on others, individuals hope to maintain positive relationships and support the well-being of those around them. These customs serve as a reminder to be conscious of one’s actions and their potential consequences.
Pouring a Glass of Water
In Turkish culture, it is common to pour a glass of water over a mirror or on the road behind someone who is leaving on a journey. This tradition is based on the belief that the person’s journey will be as smooth as water and that they will return in good health. The act of pouring water is seen as a way to symbolize and ensure a safe and successful journey.
Tradition of Pouring Water During a Journey
Pouring a glass of water during a journey is deeply rooted in Turkish tradition and folklore. It is believed that water has cleansing and purifying properties that can ward off any potential obstacles or dangers that may arise during the journey. By pouring water over a mirror or on the road, individuals hope to create a path free from difficulties and ensure a smooth and healthy journey for their loved ones.
Symbolism of a Smooth and Healthy Journey
The act of pouring water over a mirror or on the road symbolizes the desire for a clear and unobstructed path for the person embarking on the journey. It represents the hope for a journey that is free from obstacles, difficulties, and negative experiences. By invoking the symbolism of water, individuals express their wishes for the traveler’s well-being and safe return. This tradition reflects the importance of wishing others a successful and trouble-free journey.
Sharp Objects
In Turkish culture, it is considered bad luck to hand someone a sharp object like a knife or scissors with the blade facing them. This act is believed to potentially cause a fight or disagreement between the two individuals in the future. To prevent any negative consequences, it is recommended to either put the sharp object down and ask the person to pick it up themselves or to turn the object around and give them the blunt side.
Superstition Surrounding Handing Sharp Objects
The superstition surrounding handing sharp objects with the blade facing someone is rooted in the belief that physical objects hold energy and can affect the future outcomes of individuals. By handing a sharp object with the blade facing someone, it is believed that the negative energy associated with the object can create conflict or discord between the two individuals. This superstition reflects the belief in the interconnectedness of actions and their potential consequences.
Preventing Future Fights Through Careful Actions
To avoid any potential fights or disagreements in the future, it is important to handle sharp objects with caution and mindfulness. By being aware of the potential effects of one’s actions, individuals can take preventive measures to ensure positive interactions and maintain harmonious relationships. This superstition serves as a reminder to be mindful of the energy and intentions behind one’s actions and to take care in how physical objects are handled and shared.
The Right Side
In Turkish culture, it is believed to be auspicious to begin everything on the right side. Whether it is boarding a plane with the right foot or getting out of bed from the right side, starting on the right is seen as bringing more positive outcomes. This superstition stems from the belief that the left side is associated with bad news and negative energy. By consciously choosing the right side, individuals hope to attract positivity and avoid potential misfortunes.
Belief in Starting Everything on the Right Side
The belief in starting everything on the right side reflects the desire for positive outcomes and the avoidance of negativity. By consciously choosing the right side, individuals aim to set a more favorable tone for their actions and experiences. This superstition highlights the belief in the power of intention and the personal agency in shaping one’s own destiny.
Avoidance of the Left Side for Positive Outcomes
The superstition surrounding the avoidance of the left side is rooted in the belief that it carries negative energy and bad news. By actively choosing to start on the right side, individuals hope to counteract any potential misfortunes associated with the left side. This belief is a reminder to be mindful of one’s surroundings and to take intentional actions that align with positive outcomes.
Ringing in the Ears
In Turkish culture, it is believed that when your ears ring, it means someone is talking about you. If the ringing is on the left side, someone is saying mean things about you, but if it’s on the right side, the talk is more positive. Similarly, if your eye twitches, it is believed that someone is coming soon to visit you. These superstitions connect physical sensations to the actions and thoughts of others.
Interpreting the Meaning of Ear Ringing
The interpretation of ear ringing in Turkish culture reflects the belief in the interconnectedness of individuals and the power of words and thoughts. When your ears ring, it is believed that others are talking about you, and the side on which the ringing occurs determines the nature of the conversation. This superstition emphasizes the impact that words and thoughts can have on one’s well-being and the importance of being mindful of the energy and intentions of others.
Differentiating Between Left and Right Side Ringing
The superstition surrounding ear ringing differentiates between the left and right side to determine the nature of the conversation. When the ringing occurs on the left side, it is believed that someone is speaking ill or saying mean things about you. This may serve as a warning or a reminder to be mindful of potential negative influences. On the other hand, if the ringing occurs on the right side, it is seen as a positive indication that someone is speaking positively or admirably about you. This interpretation may bring comfort and a sense of affirmation.
Left or Right Palm
In Turkish culture, itchy palms are believed to carry messages about money. If your left palm itches, it is seen as a sign that you might be losing money, while an itchy right palm suggests that you will be making money. These interpretations connect physical sensations to financial outcomes, providing individuals with insight into their financial prospects and decisions.
Interpreting Itchy Palms as Messages about Money
The belief in itchy palms as messages about money reflects the desire to gain insight into one’s financial situation. By paying attention to the physical sensation of itchiness in the palms, individuals hope to gather information about potential gains or losses. This superstition highlights the human desire for financial security and the belief in the power of subtle signs and sensations.
Different Interpretations for Left and Right Palm Itching
The different interpretations for left and right palm itching offer distinct insights into one’s financial prospects. If the left palm itches, it is believed to signify potential financial losses. This may serve as a warning or a reminder to exercise caution and prudence in financial matters. On the other hand, if the right palm itches, it is seen as a positive indication of potential financial gains. This interpretation may inspire confidence and encourage individuals to pursue opportunities and make financial decisions with optimism.
Bride and Groom
During a wedding in Turkey, it is common to see the bride intentionally step on the groom’s foot when they are declared married. This act symbolizes the dominance of the bride in the marriage and is considered a playful assertion of her control and authority. It serves as a lighthearted reminder that the bride plays an important role in shaping the dynamics of the marital relationship.
The Significance of the Bride Stepping on the Groom’s Foot
The bride stepping on the groom’s foot during the wedding ceremony is a symbolic act that represents her authority and dominance in the marriage. By playfully asserting herself in this way, the bride establishes her presence and influence in the relationship. This tradition reflects the belief in the importance of balance and equality within a marriage, highlighting the bride’s role in shaping the dynamics of the partnership.
Symbolizing the Dominance of the Bride in the Marriage
The act of the bride stepping on the groom’s foot signifies her willingness to take charge and assert herself in the marriage. It serves as a reminder that the bride is not simply a passive participant, but an active and influential presence in the relationship. This tradition promotes the idea of mutual respect and the importance of shared power within a marriage.
In conclusion, Turkish culture is rich in superstitions and beliefs, each with its own unique meaning and significance. From the evil eye to various gestures and actions, these customs and traditions reflect the Turkish people’s deep-rooted beliefs in the power of energy, intention, and the interconnectedness of individuals. By embracing and practicing these superstitions, individuals hope to protect themselves from negativity, attract positive outcomes, and ensure their well-being and happiness.