Cats have woven themselves into human culture for centuries. These mysterious creatures have inspired beliefs, superstitions and folklore spanning continents and generations. Whether we believe them or not, what different cultures have imagined about cats makes for some fascinating reading.
1. Achoo! Money’s coming your way
In Italy, hearing a cat sneeze is supposed to bring good luck. If you hear it sneeze once, it is said to mean that money is on its way. If a bride hears a cat sneeze on her wedding day, it is believed to be a sign of a happy marriage. However, if the cat sneezes three times, watch out—you might be coming down with a cold.
2. Graveyard? Catwalk? Not so fast
In parts of Southern Europe, folklore has it that if a cat jumps across a person’s grave, they will rise again as a vampire. So, perhaps keeping curious cats away from the cemetery is a good idea.
3. One paw up, luck on
You have probably seen the little cat figurines with one paw raised. Known as maneki-neko, these Japanese lucky cats are believed to attract good fortune and wealth. It is no wonder they are a familiar sight in shops, restaurants and homes.
4. All aboard the lucky cat
In old European maritime traditions, sailors believed cats on board ships brought good luck and safe passage. They were also an invaluable resource, keeping rodents under control and helping prevent the spread of disease. Talk about a crew member who earned their keep.
5. A cat at the door? Let them in
In Scotland, a strange cat turning up at your doorstep is considered good luck. A black cat, in particular, is believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the household. This is quite the opposite of the reputation black cats have traditionally had in India, where they are often associated with bad luck. In other cultures, however, they are seen as friendly and fortunate omens.
6. When cats were divine
In ancient Egypt, cats were associated with the goddess Bastet, who symbolised home, fertility and protection, making cats sacred animals. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was considered a serious crime punishable by death. Egyptians believed cats brought divine blessings to the families that cared for them. We could all take a page from ancient Egypt and give our kitties the respect they deserve.
7. Let the cat move in first
In Russia, a common tradition is to let a cat be the first to enter a new home, as cats are believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the family. Some traditions also suggest that cats can absorb negative energy lingering in a space, making the home feel safe and warding off evil spirits. Similar beliefs can be found in India, where cats are sometimes thought to be able to sense or interact with other planes of reality.
From sneezes that supposedly bring money to cats that guard homes from evil spirits, feline folklore is anything but boring. Perhaps it is their mysterious aura, or simply the fact that cats have always done exactly what they please, but wherever you are in the world, there is likely to be a superstition or two involving these enigmatic creatures.
—manuvipin@newindianexpress.com
@ManuVipin
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