There is an array of superstitions in many cultures worldwide, many of which are still followed in everyday life. But did you know that there are also quite a few superstitions associated with gambling?
Gambling is often seen as a game of chance, depending solely on luck, with most outcomes being a mystery to players and onlookers. While this may not be entirely true, many beliefs have fallen into place, including ways players can avoid bad luck during a game. Despite the mathematical nature of most casino games, these superstitions remain ingrained in gambling culture, often influencing player behavior and strategies.
Why Superstitions Thrive in Gambling
The existence of gambling superstitions may come as a surprise, especially in a world where players can access an instant casino in just one click. They have more options than ever before, with cutting-edge payment options like cryptocurrencies and security-enhancing technologies. However, the accessibility of these online platforms has further prompted players to lean into these beliefs as they can practice any ritual, no matter how flamboyant, from the comfort of their own homes. Factors such as winning or losing while following a particular superstition can have lasting effects, including positive or negative reinforcements for players.
Furthermore, these beliefs stem from the uncertainty associated with gambling, often showcasing players’ desire for control. This goes beyond just one player, with the concept usually existing as a shared belief between large groups of players or within a community. Many of these types of beliefs begin to formulate in groups where gambling culture is a large part of socializing. In turn, this creates a larger sense of community and social bonding.
1. Crossing Legs and Arms
A very common belief is that crossing your arms or legs during a game can create a barrier that blocks your good luck or energy. In some cultures, crossing your legs is seen as a one-way ticket to bad luck in general. While it is unclear where this particular superstition seems to have originated from, it seems to be a prominent belief in many cultures worldwide today.
2. Blowing on Dice
The act of blowing on dice before a roll for good luck is the most common superstition on this list. It is quite difficult to pinpoint the origin of this one since it is so deeply ingrained in a multitude of cultures.
However, there are theories stating that this practice started with men who used to roll dice in the street and believed it had to be clean before playing. Another theory, albeit morbid, is that it started as a means to cheat, whereby players put a substance on their dice that can be activated by blowing on it, thus creating the illusion of luck.
3. The Taboo of Counting Money at the Table
Ever heard of it being bad luck to count your winnings at the gambling table? Well, this is another superstition that is heavily ingrained into today’s gambling culture. Many players are warned away from either counting their winnings or doing so prematurely, as this could potentially jinx the said punter. However, with modern-day bankroll management, it is important to ensure you have received all your winnings and that it is within your budget. There is no reason not to step away from the table when doing so, though.
4. Lucky Colors
Outside of gambling, having a lucky color is quite a common trend for many. Naturally, it would bleed into punting culture as well, where there is great weight associated with the colors you play with. For example, in many Asian countries, red is a symbol of luck and fortune, especially where gambling is concerned. In other cultures, the color black may be thought to bring bad luck to players making use of it when gambling.
5. The Power of Lucky Charms and Objects
Lucky charms are a belief that reaches beyond just gambling culture, with some individuals being inseparable from their lucky object. In gambling, the most common charms are usually rabbit’s feet, a particular type of jewelry (like a watch), or even gold and silver coins. One could argue that having such a charm for each winning game impacts a player’s mindset and makes them believe that they would lose without it. However, there is also the chance that the lucky charm is actually doing its job, which is why those players never lose.
6. Entering Through the “Right” Door
Although it may be considered a more eccentric belief, many players believe using the wrong entrance can cause bad luck. This might be a result attributed to chance, wherein punters pick up patterns to associate with and justify a loss. On the other hand, it could also stem from a player’s spiritual beliefs, wherein the circumstances surrounding the doorway being entered can attract negative energy.
7. Avoiding the “Jinx”
This belief is often one that results in awkward situations, as some cultures believe a certain player at the table may bring bad luck.
As such, other participants are advised to avoid interacting with said person before a game as this might jinx them. While comical in nature, it could also impact the player’s performance if they are aware of being the jinx or being referred to as such.
8. Rituals and Routines
Many players do not even realize this is a superstition, but having a certain ritual or routine before gambling certainly counts as one. Whether that means preparing for a game in a specific order or having a specific drink before the game commences, it all counts as superstition. If this routine is not followed religiously, players often feel as if they are going to have a bad game or suffer a loss.
9. Lucky and Unlucky Digits
Lastly, luck, being associated with numbers, is a belief that goes back centuries, ranging from Western to Eastern countries around the globe. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that certain players have a set of lucky numbers they use to bet with. They have a set of numbers they avoid, like the plague, as it is believed to bring bad luck. For example, while number 13 is seen as extremely unlucky, 7 is associated with good fortune and lady luck.
Conclusion
Overall, luck may be something purely subjective, but believing in it seems to be a motivator for most punters to perform well. While skill and practice certainly play a large role in whether a game will go in the punter’s favor, the belief in these superstitions creates a positive mindset.
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