Did you know that August 17 was the day of the Findings of the Black Cat? And you knew that, despite the many superstitions around this animal, this has also been a reference in various cultures? I count everything in this article.
There was a time when the black cat was a prestigious animal in society. Suddenly it began to be associated with bad luck and various superstitions. Even though many have fallen into disuse, the fact remains that have come down to today.
But when he began this (bad) luck black cat? For this we have to go on a journey of several centuries by various cultures and religions.
On the one hand, the black cat began to have a mystical aura Celtic or Egyptian civilizations, being a symbol of good fortune in pagan religions, the truth is that it was the so-called Dark Ages, or Middle Ages that the black cat fell in disgrace, it is associated with a symbol of the devil and witchcraft, with the rise of the Catholic church.
But despite all the negative publicity around them, the truth is that the black cat survived centuries of persecution. And the great objective of this day is to raise awareness for the adoption of these cats.
Get to know the main myths attached to this pet.
Scotland
For the Scots, the presence of a black cat in the house porch is a sign of prosperity. In the UK and in Japan there is also the belief that this animal is a source of good luck.
Germany
Here, we have two different beliefs. On the one hand, it is believed that if a black cat cross our path from right to left is foreboding sign. But if the route is reversed, that is, from left to right, is a sign of good luck.
Italy
Here too there are two distinct beliefs. On one hand, we hear a black cat sneezing is a good omen, the same does not happen when a black cat lay on the sickbed it is a sign that death is near.
U.S
In this country, there is the belief that if a black cat cross our path is sign of bad luck.
Ireland
If someone crosses with this animal, on moonlit nights, it is an epidemic of foreshadowing.
France
In the south it is believed that taking care of a black cat is a source of good luck.
Latvia
In this country, the black cat is connected to the spirit of Rungis, the god of harvest, so a good omen signal.
Portugal
Although there a very specific belief regarding this animal, the truth is that turns out to be a symbol associated with bad luck.
What is the role of the black cat in ancient civilizations?
Celtic
In Celtic mythology, it was believed that a fairy with the name "Cat Sith" took the form of a black cat.
Egyptians
In ancient civilization cats had a great leading role. One such case is related to the cult of the goddess of fertility and protector of women, Bastet, who was depicted with a woman's body and head of black cat.
Persian
In ancient Persia it was believed that if someone mistreated a black cat, was mistreating a friend spirit, as you saw in the cat a pet for humanity.