They might be called “superstitions”, but these old sayings are rooted in our history. Even across time and space, they have kept our cultures united.
#1 A bird flying in the house means death. This has been passed down as part of oral history among our people, most notably in the culture of Lowcountry South Carolina.
#2 Don’t sweep over someone’s feet
This is a big "no-no" if someone hopes to get married or stay out of jail. In the Caribbean, especially Jamaica, it's a lesson taught from childhood. No one wants that kind of ill luck.
#3 Itchy Palms
This particular superstition can be traced back to Kenya. It's believed that wealth is coming in if your right palm is itchy, but if it's the left palm, money is going out.
#4 Fishy Dreams
Dream interpretation has deep roots in many African cultures. So, it's no surprise that there's a symbolic correlation between images and meanings in dreams. One old wive's tale says that if someone dreams of fish, they or someone close to them is pregnant.
#5 No Hats On The Bed
Cultures across the diaspora have this one. Notably, a hat on the bed in Vodou warns that a hex or other ill will befall you.
These idioms are a fixture in the tapestry of Black culture. They serve as a reminder of our roots, and our connection with our people across the globe. Whether you scoff at black cats crossing your path or hesitate before stepping on a crack, embracing these sayings brings us closer to our cultural identity.