Paraskevidekatriaphobia

It means fear of Friday the 13^th.

Considered to be an unlucky day, the superstitions are rooted in historical coincidences and rumors.

Friday the 13th’s bad reputation comes from the medieval ages. During the Crusades, the Knights Templar gained a lot of wealth and power, becoming a threat to the Catholic Church. Pope Clement V and King of France Philip IV ordered that the Knights Templar be killed on Friday, Oct. 13, 1307. It is also rumored that Jesus was crucified on a Friday, rumors further elaborate that he was crucified on Friday the 13^th.  

The fear of the number 13, Triskaidekaphobia, also adds to the superstitions to Friday the 13^th. Fears stem from the Last Supper and Norse myths. Superstitions say that a diner will unexpectedly die when 13 people dine together, like at the Last Supper. In a Norse myth, one of the gods had a party with 12 people; however, Loki, the god of evil appeared uninvited, making the number of guests 13. In an attempt to throw out Loki, one of the gods died.

Today, superstitions surrounding the number 13 can be seen in everyday instances.

• Most high rise buildings don’t have a 13^th floor
• Most airports don’t have a 13^th terminal
• Most airplanes don’t have a 13^th aisle
• Most cities don’t have a 13^th street

The Jefferson Building in Jefferson City, however, has a 13^th floor.  

If you know of any superstitions, comment below.