Today, the phrase “Friday the 13th” rolls off the tongue, and is linked to bad luck and strange happenings.

No one can verify the origins of Friday the 13th or why people are superstitious on this day.

Some say the number 13 is considered unlucky because of its place after the number 12. 12 is associated with completeness: whole, perfect, harmonious. Examples being 12 apostles, 12 Olympic Gods, 12 animals in the Chinese horoscope, etc. Thirteen is just a little beyond completeness.

Friday’s associations have a weaker background. Friday carries certain meaning in Christian tradition. As described in the creation story, Eve gave Adam the poisonous fruit and it was Friday that Jesus was crucified.  Other than that, there is no real association of why Friday is unlucky.

Friday the 13th usually only happens once or twice a year. In 2015 it will happen three times (February, March, and November.)

Despite the uncertainty of its origins, the buzz about Friday the 13th continues.  Whether you are superstitious or not, good luck today.