5 southern superstitions/beliefs
Oh, you already know Southern Black folks got a whole handbook of superstitions! Some of these been passed down for generations, and whether you believe ‘em or not, best believe Big Mama was notplaying about them.
Here go five of the biggest ones:
1️⃣ Sweeping Somebody’s Feet = No Husband or Bad Luck
Baby, if somebody run that broom across your feet, you might as well start planning to be single forever at least that’s what the old folks say! If it happens, you better spit on that broom real quick to reverse the curse. Otherwise, you might be blocking your blessings and your wedding bells. 💍🧹
2️⃣ Going in One Door & Out Another = Bad Luck
Listen, don’t be playing musical doors in a house! If you walk in through the front, you best leave out the same way. They say going in one and coming out another brings bad luck, like stirring up spirits that don’t need to be disturbed. Ain’t nobody got time for that! 🚪👀
3️⃣ Splitting the Pole = Bad Blood & Arguments
You walking with your people, and a pole come up—y’all better walk on the same side! If you split it, that means arguments, breakups, or bad vibes are coming. And if it does happen? Just say “bread and butter” real quick to smooth things over. 🍞🧈
4️⃣ Don’t Put Your Purse on the Floor = You’ll Stay Broke
Ain’t no way a Southern Black woman gon’ let her purse touch that floor—NO MA’AM. They say if you do, all your money gon’ run out like water. So if you see a purse on the ground, go ‘head and pick it up, ‘cause we tryna gain wealth, not lose it. 💰👜
5️⃣ Itchy Palm = Money or a Letter Coming
If your right hand itching, get ready ‘cause some unexpected money is on the way! But if it’s your left palm? You ‘bout to get some news in the form of a letter or message. Either way, keep some lotion nearby ‘cause ain’t nobody tryna be ashy or broke! 💵📬
Chile, these superstitions still got folks acting funny to this day! Which one you grew up hearing the most? 👀 #blackhistory #spirituality #blackmagic #blackgirllemon8 #superstitions
Y'all, growing up in the South, these aren't just old wives' tales; they're an integral part of our cultural fabric, passed down with a serious tone from generation to generation. My Big Mama had a whole book of them, and you just knew not to cross her when it came to these traditions! It wasn't about fear; it was about respect for the unseen and hoping to invite good luck while warding off anything negative. Beyond the five I mentioned, there are so many more cultural superstitions that shape daily life and even special occasions. For instance, have you heard about the importance of eating black-eyed peas and collard greens on New Year's Day? This is a quintessential Southern New Year's superstition! People swear by it for good luck and financial prosperity in the coming year. The black-eyed peas represent coins, and the greens symbolize paper money. It’s a delicious and hopeful tradition that practically everyone in the South observes, hoping to kick off the year with an abundance of blessings. These aren't just meals; they're superstition rituals for a prosperous future! Another one I remember is about sweeping. Beyond sweeping someone's feet, my Big Mama always said never to sweep dust out the door after dark. It was believed you'd be sweeping your good fortune right out of the house! Instead, you'd sweep it into a corner and dispose of it properly in the morning. It's all about being mindful of how our actions, even simple household chores, can potentially impact our luck. Many of these old superstitions are tied to common, everyday things, making them easy to remember and integrate into life. Sometimes, these superstitions offer a sense of control or a way to make sense of the unpredictable. If something bad happens, there's often a small ritual or a saying, like "bread and butter" when you split a pole, that people believe can reverse the curse or smooth things over. These aren't just random beliefs; they're often deeply connected to a desire for protection, prosperity, and harmony within the community. Whether they bring actual good luck or not, they certainly bring a sense of continuity and connection to our heritage. What a rich part of our Southern culture these beliefs are!
I was taught if someone swept your foot it means you would end up in jail unless you spit on both sides