Superstitions have been a great part of our history as human beings. But in Russia, these beliefs have been woven into daily life, making it all the more fascinating.
Some of them are playful while others are deeply symbolic. One thing is clear though, they are all part of Russian culture. Today we are going to look at 11 captivating examples, because 13 felt super unlucky!
1. Avoid shaking hands at the threshold
In Russian culture, the threshold is where the “house spirit” is believed to dwell.
Exchanging handshakes, kisses or even gifts here is thought to anger the spirit and invite conflict and misfortune. It is for this very reason that you will see Russians pause, step inside the house fully first, and then greet warmly.
So, the next time you are ever welcomed into a Russian home, do not go around and stretch your hand at the door. Take a step inside first then comes the proper greeting.
2. Always offer an odd number of flowers
When giving flowers in Russia, believe it or not but numbers matter. Odd numbers are seen as a symbol of joy, celebration and life. This is perfect for birthdays, weddings and even anniversaries.
Even numbers, on the other hand, are reserved for things like funerals and mourning. Go ahead and accidentally bring a dozen flowers to a birthday party and you earn yourself awkward looks.
Good thing that the Russian florists know this well and so they sell the bouquets in odd numbers by default.
3. Sitting Before a Journey
Before embarking on a trip, Russians often sit together for a minute, even if all the bags are packed and the taxi is already waiting. This ritual is known as “sitting on the road.”
It is believed to help travelers gather their thoughts, remember forgotten items and start the journey with calm energy. Sometimes, family can join in offering their good wishes after the short pause. While it may look strange to outsiders, this superstition funnily enough blends practicality with traditions by reducing forgetfulness.
4. Never leave empty bottles on the table
After taking drinks, Russians usually place the empty bottles under the table rather than leaving them in plain sight. This custom reportedly began in Paris back in the 19th century when Russian soldiers avoided being charged for empties.
Over time, this evolved into a superstition that is tied to bad fortune and financial loss. Today, it is as much about habit as belief. You will rarely see empty bottles lingering during a Russian feast.
It may feel unusual to guests, but following the tradition shows respect for cultural norms and prevents curious looks.
5. Salt Spills Spark Arguments
Salt has always been precious to many people. But in Russia, salt is not just a precious but almost mystical substance. It symbolizes hospitality and friendship.
If you accidentally spill it however, it is seen as a sure sign of an upcoming quarrel or disagreement.
To soften the omen, some people quickly toss a pinch of salt over their left shoulder which ‘blinds the devil.’ This belief is tied back to a European folklore but it still remains a popular belief in Russia to date.
6. Tap wood, and maybe spit, after good news
When you receive good news or when praising good fortune in Russia, you have to knock on wood to prevent the good fortune from slipping away. Sometimes it can even go as far as tapping three times then spitting over their left shoulder for extra protection.
It might sound dramatic but the general idea is to confuse even spirits that could be lurking nearby. This ensures that they do not ruin the happy moment.
7. No Whistling Indoors
Whistling inside the house may feel harmless, but in Russia, it is believed to “whistle away your money” or invite financial troubles.
The belief is so ingrained that even children are told to stop whistling the moment they try to do it. The roots go back to the idea that whistling stirs up mischief and attracts troublemaking spirits. In modern times, people are still avoiding it, even if it is half-jokingly.
8. Avoid sitting at the table’s corner if you are single
At a party or family table, Russians may leave the corner seats empty. Not for comfort but because it is a subtle attempt at dooming someone to seven years of singledom.
The superstition especially targets the unmarried guests, who are encouraged to sit somewhere else. Though this superstition is taken lightly today, many people still avoid tempting fate.
9. Don’t sit on cold ground
In Russian households, sitting on cold ground, concrete or even a stone bench, is frowned upon. The belief is that in doing so, especially for women, could lead to infertility or health problems.
Though modern medicine doesn’t support the claim, the advice persists strongly. Many still pack cushions for picnics or stop children from plopping down on chilly ground. It is a superstition that is rooted in practicality too, since sitting on cold surfaces in harsh Russian winters could indeed make someone sick.
10. No Early Birthday Wishes
In Russia, wishing someone a happy birthday before the actual day is avoided. Doing so is thought to invite bad luck, illness, or worse, almost as if you are tempting fate.
Friends and family instead wait until midnight or the morning of the birthday itself, showering the person with well-wishes then. For Russians, patience ensures celebrations are safe and lucky.
11. Sit between two people with the same name and make a wish
One of the more charming Russian superstitions says that if you find yourself seated between two people with the same name, you should make a wish. The catch however is that the wish must be kept secret, or it will not come true. With common Russian names like Maria or Alexander, the situation is not as rare, so opportunities for wishes abound.
Wrapping up
Russian superstitions are part of their cultural memories and values. From practices like knocking on wood to pausing before travel, Russian superstitions reveal a culture deeply tied to ritual, symbolism, and unseen protections.
Some are rooted in practicality, others in pure tradition, but all offer a glimpse into how Russians bring meaning to everyday actions.
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