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Walk around or under? - When leaned against a structure, ladders form a triangular shape. Ancients regarded the triangle as a holy space. According to Blurtit.com, ancient cultures believed gods resided in the space underneath the ladder, so passing through this sacred space was evil and punishable.
- According to Library Thinkquest.com, many religions believed the triangle was the symbol of life. Walking through the triangle invited hardship.
- For Christians, triangles represented the Holy Trinity. According to Timeless Myths.com, "The number three was somewhat sacred, and the triangle was by association also sacred." Passing through the Trinity displayed irreverence. Christianity also associates ladders with the crucifixion, because a ladder leaned against the cross where Christ died.
- Until gallows were invented, criminals were hung from ladders. Later, ladders rested against the gallows. According to an 1891 edition of "The Star," the victim generally had to pass under the ladder that stood against the gallows for the convenience of the executioner. People believed the ghost of the victim lingered under the ladder for a time after his death.
- Ladders in ancient times were unstable and accidents occurred often. People considered injury of any kind bad luck.















