Why are people superstitious about Friday the 13th?

TL;DR:

The superstition surrounding Friday the 13th stems from cultural beliefs that the number thirteen and the day Friday are unlucky. Historical myths, religious associations, and popular media have amplified this superstition. However, Christians reject superstition, trusting in God’s sovereignty over all circumstances.

what does the bible say?

A few times a year, the thirteenth of the month falls on a Friday. The fear of this day is called paraskevidekatriaphobia, and it is very real and quite serious for some people. No one really knows when or how the superstition of Friday the 13th became associated with bad events or circumstances. Some simply believe thirteen is the “unluckiest” number and Friday the “unluckiest” day. Christians are called to reject fear rooted in superstition or "bad luck" and instead place their faith in God. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages believers to "trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding." The fear of days, numbers, or omens undermines this trust. As Romans 8:28 reminds us, "all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Faith in God’s providence and confidence in His care and protection replaces superstition.

from the old testament

Isaiah 41:10 reassures believers that God’s presence nullifies the power of fear, even in a day or bad luck.
In Psalm 118:6 the psalmist says that "the LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" God’s protection is greater than any perceived misfortune or superstition.

from the new testament

Jesus reminds us to focus on God’s provision rather than fear imagined dangers in Matthew 6:34: "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."
The Bible firmly opposes superstition, emphasizing trust in God’s sovereignty over the universe and every event within it. Ephesians 1:11 says, in part, that God "works all things according to the counsel of his will,” not superstition or luck.
Colossians 1:16-17 says that Jesus is active in everything, still: "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together." Jesus Christ not only created all things but actively sustains them, ensuring that nothing occurs outside of His authority. Luck is not a thing that Christians should believe.
Faith in God empowers believers to reject fear-based beliefs like superstition. Second Timothy 1:7 confirms this truth: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

implications for today

The combination of Friday the 13th, some say, is potent. Thirteen is thought to be unlucky for some because twelve is considered complete (twelve signs of the zodiac, twelve hours on the clock, twelve tribes of Israel, twelve disciples, twelve months of the year, etc.). One more is stepping out of bounds, so to speak. Others say thirteen is unlucky because of the thirteen people sitting at the table at the Last Supper, the last time all the disciples were together with Jesus before His death (Matthew 26:17-29). Friday is thought to be unlucky because Jesus was crucified on a Friday. Of course, Christians call this Good Friday because this is the day Jesus took our sins to the cross for us. In modern times, movies, books, and other entertainment have latched onto this superstition to market their programs. Some of these include Black Sabbath's debut album, the thirteenth book in the Lemony Snicket series, and four of the Friday the 13th movies.

Friday the 13th superstition reflects humanity’s historical inclination to fear the unknown and seek control through rituals or beliefs. While such fears are often fueled by myths and media, Christians are called to reject superstitions and trust God. This involves a shift from fear of bad luck to faith in God’s active and loving involvement in our lives.

Believers can confidently face each day, knowing that God’s purposes prevail. Rather than fearing numbers or days, we are encouraged to live with trust in God’s perfect plan, finding peace in His sovereignty. This confidence not only frees us from superstition but also serves as a testimony to the world of the power of faith over fear.

understand

The superstition about Friday the 13th combines beliefs that the number thirteen and the day Friday are unlucky.
Historical myths, religious associations, and modern media have popularized this fear.
Christians reject superstition, placing their trust in God’s sovereignty and care over all circumstances.

reflect

How has fear or superstition influenced your decisions, and how does trusting in God’s sovereignty challenge those fears?
How can you remind yourself to rely on God’s promises and character when faced with uncertain situations?
Are there any superstitions or habits in your life that you need to release in favor of deeper faith in God’s care and protection?

engage

How can we help others understand the difference between superstition and trusting in God’s active presence?
Why do you think superstitions like Friday the 13th persist in modern culture, and how can we use this as an opportunity to share biblical truths?
What does rejecting fear-based beliefs look like in practical, everyday living for Christians?