Italian
The irrational fear of the number 17, especially when it falls on a Friday, is a deeply rooted superstition in Italy and other Greco-Latin cultures.
Heptacaidecafobia is the irrational fear of the number 17, which, when combined with Friday, is considered by many superstitious people to be an unlucky day.
The word itself is difficult to even pronounce, but it is a serious fear, especially in Italy, though not only there. It is also common in other countries with Greco-Latin roots.
The term comes from the Greek “heptakaideka” (seventeen) and “phobos” (fear). Moreover, the fear linking Friday to the number 17 originates from the combination of two superstitions: Friday, the day of Jesus’ crucifixion, and the number 17, regarded as unlucky for several historical and cultural reasons, including being an anagram — VIXI — of the Roman numeral XVII (17), meaning “I have lived.”
In ancient Rome, the phrase “VIXI” was inscribed on tombstones, meaning “I have lived” (and therefore, I am dead). The word “VIXI” is an anagram of the Roman numeral XVII (17), which is how the association with death arose.
Additionally, in the Old Testament, Genesis recounts that the Great Flood began on the 17th day of the second month. The Pythagoreans, followers of Pythagoras, despised the number 17 because it sits between 16 and 18 — numbers considered perfect.
In Catholic tradition, Friday is the day of the week Jesus was crucified. In Ancient Rome, Friday was dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love, but Christians preferred to associate it with Christ’s death.
Combination of Two Superstitions
The pairing of the day (Friday) and the number (17) has become a symbol of bad luck in popular culture, especially in Italy. In Anglo-Saxon countries, for example, the superstition is connected to Friday the 13th.
To counter the fear of Friday the 17th, superstition can be overcome through reason and humor. One way to do this is by taking part in joyful celebrations like the “Anti-Superstition Day” (GAS) organized by CICAP.
Alternatively, one can lighten the fear by performing lucky rituals or acts that oppose negativity, such as preparing a special meal or using amulets.
Exorcising with Food: If you feel influenced by superstition, you can prepare a special dish that tradition says wards off bad luck. Some customs recommend using garlic and chili pepper.
Finally, although Friday the 17th is considered unlucky, one can choose to live it as an ordinary day and not be swayed by popular beliefs.
