Is it bad luck if you kill a spider?
The adage "if you wish to live and thrive, let a spider run alive" has roots in Irish and Scottish folklore. First recorded in 1867, this proverb suggests that killing spiders brings bad luck. People often associate this belief with the spider's historical use in medicinal contexts.
Many believe having spiders in homes is beneficial. Spiders are generally harmless and consume small insects like mosquitoes and flies. By catching these pests in their webs, spiders contribute to disease prevention. Hence, they are often viewed as welcome guests in households.
The Significance of Money Spiders
To deter harm to these small creatures, people refer to them as 'money spiders.' These spiders are thought to bring good luck and fortune. Should someone encounter a spider in a hazardous situation, they should move it to a safe place, like a window. If the spider dies during this process, it supposedly results in bad luck, including potential financial loss. Conversely, a surviving spider is believed to enrich the individual's life.
Another prevalent myth is that killing a spider can cause storms. Many Irish residents abide by this belief, avoiding harm to spiders. Still, Ireland’s frequent storms raise questions about the prevalence of spider deaths unnoticed by these cautious folks.
Cultural Views on Spiders
Different cultures hold various beliefs about spiders. Many traditional tales depict spiders as components in medicines, poisons, or witches' brews. The intricacies of a spider's web have long captured human curiosity. As unique structures, spider webs symbolize the universe's center, with the spider itself occupying a significant role. The spiral design represents themes of creation and growth.
Further, the time of day a spider is encountered may affect its significance. Seeing a spider in the morning often signifies bad news; midday encounters create anxiety, while evening sightings might lead to financial troubles.
Divergent Beliefs in India
Conversely, in Indian tradition, spider webs are frowned upon. They are seen as dirty, suggesting abandonment and misfortune. Homes featuring spider webs depict unhappiness and disharmony among residents, resembling neglect.
Spiders as Protectors
An interesting folk tale describes how spiders protect through their webs. A soldier and his troops, after experiencing a defeat, hid in a cave to evade their enemies. When the opposing army approached, the sight of an undisturbed spider web at the cave's entrance led them to conclude that no one was inside. The intact web created the illusion that the cave had remained untouched. Later, the soldier shared this story with his people, highlighting the harmlessness and protective nature of spiders. Hence, the narrative has persisted, encouraging the refrain from killing these beneficial creatures.
Earlier, SSP told why we knock on wood for luck.