Moreover, in order for a phobia to be diagnosed, it must significantly impact the sufferer’s life.
But could this phobia just be linked to superstition?
Experts have long debated the scientific validity of triskaidekaphobia.
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Origins
Regardless of its scientific classification, triskaidekaphobia is an age-old and pervasivefear.
It is commonly linked to the early Christians, as the number 13 appears in certain Biblical traditions.
For example, there were 13 people present at the Last Supper, Jesus and his 12 Apostles.
Some say that the betrayer Judas was the 13th to join the table.
However, the number 13 is also presented positively in the Bible.
Additionally, evidence for this phobia can be found in some pre-Christian traditions.
For example, in Viking mythology, Loki is believed to be the 13th god.
He is also said to have intruded on the Banquet of Valhalla, to which 12 gods were invited.
The god Baldr was soon killed accidentally by his brother, using a spear given to him by Loki.
The laws are numbered, but number 13 is omitted (along with numbers 66 through 99).
Therefore, it is possible that triskaidekaphobia was widespread even among the ancient peoples.
Examples in Modern Culture
Today, triskaidekaphobia is widely accepted among Western cultures.
Most Western hotels omit the 13th floor.
Many airlines omit the 13th row in seating.
Even some cities and towns skip over 13th Street.
Fear of Friday the 13th is known as paraskevidekatriaphobia.
Many cultures have traditions of unlucky numbers other than 13.
It seems to be an ancient and widespread phobia whose origins may never be fully understood.
In cases of more severe anxiety, medication may help you cope with symptoms alongside therapy.
