Why Is it Bad Luck to Walk Under a Ladder?

Seamlessly woven into everyday life, superstitions outlast culture after culture. For centuries, passers-by have avoided walking under ladders for fear of attracting bad luck. This superstition arises from a variety of historical theories.

Ancient Cultures

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.

Symbol of Life

According to Library Thinkquest.com, many religions believed the triangle was the symbol of life. Walking through the triangle invited hardship.

Christianity

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.

Linked to Death

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.

Injuries

Ladders in ancient times were unstable and accidents occurred often. People considered injury of any kind bad luck.

References

• Blurt It
• Library ThinkQuest
• Timeless Myths

Resources

• The Star Newspaper at Paperspast