What are some traditional Turkish superstitions?

 




Hey everyone! Today, we're going to dive into a fascinating aspect of Turkish culture: superstitions!

Now, before we start, it's important to remember that superstitions are just that – beliefs that may or may not have any basis in reality. They're part of folklore and tradition, often passed down through generations. Still, they offer a window into the values and anxieties of a culture, and in Turkey, they're a vibrant part of everyday life.

So, grab a cup of Turkish tea, and let's explore some of the most common and intriguing superstitions you'll find here in Turkey:

Nazar (The Evil Eye)

Let's start with the big one – Nazar, or the evil eye. It's a belief that a malicious glare can cause bad luck or even harm. To ward off the evil eye, you'll see blue glass beads with an eye design EVERYWHERE – hanging in homes, worn as jewelry, even dangling from the rearview mirrors of cars!

What to do: If someone gives you a compliment, they might say "Maşallah" ("May God protect") afterward to prevent any ill effects. You can also try wearing an evil eye charm yourself.

Pouring Water for Departing Guests

This is a sweet one. When someone leaves your home, it's customary to pour water behind them. It symbolizes good luck and a safe journey.

What to do: Just grab a glass or pitcher and pour a little water as they step out the door. It's a simple gesture that goes a long way in Turkish culture.

Shoes on the Table

This one is more about bad manners than superstition, but it's a big deal here. Putting your shoes on a table is considered extremely disrespectful.

What to do: Just keep your shoes on the floor! If you need to adjust them, do it discreetly away from any dining areas.

Bread: A Sacred Staple

Bread is incredibly important in Turkey – so much so that it's considered bad luck to waste it or disrespect it. Dropping bread on the floor is frowned upon, and even the crumbs are treated with care.

What to do: Show your respect by handling bread with clean hands and finishing your portion. If you accidentally drop a piece, pick it up and kiss it (yes, really!).

Chewing Gum at Night

This might seem odd, but chewing gum at night is said to be equivalent to chewing the flesh of the dead! It's a bit gruesome, but hey, it's a good excuse to brush your teeth instead.

What to do: Stick to mints or gum during daylight hours.

The Number 40: A Significant Milestone

The number 40 holds special significance in Turkey. Babies aren't taken out of the house until they're 40 days old, and it's believed that the first 40 days after death are crucial for the soul's journey.

What to do: Be mindful of this if you're visiting a new mother or grieving family. Respect their traditions and offer your support.

More Quirky Superstitions

  • Black cat crossing your path: Bad luck!
  • Spilling coffee: Good luck! (Unexpected, right?)
  • Itchy right hand: You'll give money.
  • Itchy left hand: You'll receive money.

What to do: Well, for the cat, maybe turn around and take another route? The others, you can just have a chuckle and see if they come true!

The Importance of Respect

The most important thing to remember when navigating Turkish superstitions is to be respectful. Even if you don't believe in them, they're a part of the culture here, and showing sensitivity goes a long way.

So, there you have it – a glimpse into the world of Turkish superstitions. Do you have any other questions about Turkish culture or customs? Let me know in the comments below!