Is Friday 13th really unlucky? What do astrologers say it means for love, money and career?

Friday the 13^th has a reputation so fearsome it prevents some ardent believers from signing contracts, travelling or even going to work (but don’t tell the boss that’s the reason).

There’s even a phobia that can leave people feeling extreme dread on the day called paraskevidekatriaphobia.

And while the popular imagination becomes filled with mishaps, accidents and bad news, traditions like astrology, numerology and Tarot have a different interpretation of the significance of the day, reports Timesnownews.

Why is Friday 13^th considered unlucky?

The belief is often linked to the Last Supper, where Judas, who betrayed Jesus, is said to have been the 13th guest at the table, with Jesus’s crucifixion following on Good Friday.

The Knights Templar were arrested on Friday 13 October 1307, and some link that to the superstition, though there’s no evidence it started the belief.

In 1907 Thomas W. Lawson’s novel Friday, the Thirteenth was published and more recent horror movies crystallised the unlucky tradition in popular culture.

This book cemented the day in people's imaginations (Photo via Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images).

There is no scientific evidence that the day brings bad luck. But to see what others make of it, we’ve rounded up the thoughts of astrological practitioners.

Is Friday 13^th really that bad?

In numerology, the number 13 is reduced to 4 (1+3) which is said to represent stronger foundations, will power and structure. Numerologist and spiritual healer Ruma Marwah explains, “In this view, 13 is not a warning but a reminder that real growth often means rebuilding.”

According to Marwah, the day (4) means new foundations and the will to make it happen, and the month (11) links to inspiration and intuition.

“Put together, this is a day to slow down, review your choices and reconnect with your instincts,” she said.

Traditionally the signs of the Zodiac have been used by astrologers (Photo by: Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Astrologer Sidhharrth S Kumaar said the 1 in 13 is ruled by the Sun and the 3 by Jupiter, and both combine with Friday’s number, 6, which is ruled by Venus.

He says of the day: “Its positive characteristics include innovation, adaptability and the courage to begin again.”

What does Tarot say about Friday 13^th?

Death is the 13^th card of the Major Arcana in Tarot. However, it’s not all bad insists Marwah: “Despite its name, it rarely means physical death. It stands for endings that clear the way for new chapters. Not every ending is a loss.”

What does Friday 13^th mean for health, career, money and love?

Tarot has its own interpretation of Friday 13th (Photo by Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

- Health: Kumaar says, “The focus is on preventive wellbeing rather than magical resolutions.”

- Career: He explains the day brings “unconventional ideas, technology, innovation and experimentation into focus.”

- Money: It’s time to change the structure of your finances by slashing costs, checking outstanding payments owed and finding new sources of income, says Kumaar although this is not financial advice.

- Love: Couples can use this day to face unresolved issues and break negative patterns while singles can reflect on their past.