"Do you believe in Friday the thirteenth or making a wish before blowing out birthday candles? Superstitions have painted our perception of the world since the dawn of time. Prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure around the globe, through time, and across cultures, uncovering the rituals, symbols, and omens that give meaning to the unexplained and unexpected. In The Encyclopedia of Curious Rituals and Supersitions, explore humanity's greatest supernatural beliefs, and their origins, from the ancient to the everyday (and sometimes both!), including: The meanings of birthstones and birthdates; Traditions regarding death, love, and money; Lucky (and unlucky) numbers and not-so-mundane items; Beliefs surrounding the natural world, from four-leaf clovers to the phases of the moon; and much more! Whether you're superstitious or not, discover the meaning behind some of humanity's most widely held rituals and how we've always tried to understand, and even control, the many mysteries of life"-- Provided by publisher.