Unveiling 8 Fascinating Umbrella Myths and Superstitions
We’re interested in anything umbrella related and loved learning these umbrella related myths and superstitions! See what you think of what made it into our 8 Fascinating Myths and Superstitions interesting umbrella-related myths and superstitions. We’re sure about point number 4! You should always carry an umbrella with you.
Photo by Hooman R. on Unsplash
8 Fascinating Umbrella Myths and Superstitions
1. Opening an Umbrella Indoors
Myth: Opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck.
Origin: This superstition dates back to ancient Egypt, where umbrellas were used to protect people from the sun. Opening one indoors was seen as an insult to the sun god, Ra, and was believed to bring misfortune.
2. Umbrella on Furniture
Myth: Placing an umbrella on a bed or any furniture invites bad luck or illness.
Origin: This belief is rooted in the idea that an umbrella, which protects against the elements, should not be brought into the home where it might disrupt the protective spirits.
3. Falling Umbrella
Myth: If an umbrella falls to the ground, it signifies bad luck or trouble at work.
Origin: This superstition suggests that a fallen umbrella is a sign of impending difficulties, and to avoid bad luck, someone else should pick it up for you.
Branded Walking umbrella – no reflective lining
4. Rain Prediction
Myth: Carrying an umbrella will prevent it from raining, while leaving it behind guarantees a downpour.
Origin: This is more of a humorous observation than a true superstition, often referred to as Murphy’s Law applied to weather.
5. Wedding Umbrella
Myth: Getting married under an umbrella brings good luck to the couple.
Origin: The umbrella symbolises shelter and protection, which is believed to extend to the newlyweds, ensuring a happy and secure marriage.
Adding to our fascinating myths & superstitions, are urban legends relating to umbrellas
6. Kasa-obake (Japan)
Legend: In Japanese folklore, the Kasa-obake is a type of yokai (supernatural creature) that takes the form of an umbrella. It is often depicted with one eye, a long tongue, and a single leg. According to the legend, old umbrellas that have been neglected or discarded can transform into these mischievous spirits.
Behaviour: The Kasa-obake is known to hop around on its single leg, surprising and sometimes scaring people. While generally harmless, it embodies the belief that even everyday objects can possess a spirit if they are old enough.
7. The Umbrella Man (United States)
Legend: This urban legend tells of a mysterious figure known as the Umbrella Man, who appears during thunderstorms. He is said to carry a black umbrella and offer it to people caught in the rain. Those who accept his offer are never seen again.
Origin: The story varies by region, but it often serves as a cautionary tale about accepting help from strangers. The Umbrella Man is sometimes linked to other urban legends about mysterious disappearances.
These legends add a layer of mystery and intrigue to the otherwise mundane object of an umbrella. Do you have any favorite urban legends or myths? We’d love to hear them and add them to our list. Email us info@wurlin.com
If you liked these myths and legends, you might be interested in the history of the umbrella, how umbrellas have been used in TV and film or how umbrellas help with employee engagement.
8. The Ghost Umbrella (China)
In Chinese folklore, there’s a tale of the Ghost Umbrella. It’s said that during the Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, spirits of the deceased return to the world of the living. On this day, it’s believed that if you see an umbrella lying on the ground, you should never pick it up. The legend goes that these umbrellas are used by spirits to shield themselves from the sun as they wander the earth. If a living person were to pick up one of these umbrellas, they would inadvertently invite the spirit to follow them home, leading to a series of unfortunate events.
This superstition is deeply rooted in the belief that umbrellas can act as a bridge between the world of the living and the dead. The umbrella, with its circular shape, is seen as a symbol of the cycle of life and death, and opening one indoors is thought to disrupt the balance between the two realms.
It’s a fascinating example of how everyday objects can take on a deeper, symbolic meaning in different cultures. The Ghost Umbrella legend serves as a reminder of the respect for the deceased and the thin veil that separates the living from the spirit world during certain times of the year.
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