Superstitions in Gambling
Gambling is a relic of our ancient past. We have played it for ages. But while doing so, we had unwittingly brought along our superstitions - superstitions that had tittered in our minds. Moreover, the tussle between religion and gambling is very old. Gambling is perhaps as old as the concept of religion itself. But religions may believe that gambling is essentially immoral; other cultures believe that gambling, especially on festivals, brings good fortune. Cards and dice games were popular recreational activities and were also used at times to predict the future. Thus gambling and religion can be intricately linked but do not oppose each other. Consequently, their linkage may have muddled up to cause logic to be influenced by superstitions. Very rarely that superstition finds its origins on actual events. But, eventually, they get blown too much that they become irrational and baseless. These are the superstitions that have lingered for too long and may have developed into archetypes. In gambling though, they form a great part in the overall entertainment.
Sometimes in our unique subtle ways we look for metaphysical signs that would help us in determining the next be; for instance, red blouse worn by a lady next to you while you're playing roulette means that I have to bet on red. In blackjack, a disgruntled-look of a card dealer is a sign that my luck has run out on that particular table.
Superstitions may be said to be an extra baggage in our psyche when we're dealing the faces of chance. Somehow, we give our metaphysical logic too much credit and that a toenail or a horned toad actually increases your odds of winning. Each gambler is said to have his superstitions that bring good fortune, but the following are found to be the most common:
• Keeping a four leaf clover
• Keeping a rabbit's foot.
• Keeping a horseshoe.
• Keeping a personal lucky charm.
• Wearing a lucky item of clothing.
• Blow the dice before a throw
• Wearing a good dress
• Finger crossing
• Chips should be stacked neatly.
• Anything red.
On the other hand, these instances bring bad luck:
• A broken mirror.
• A black cat crossing one's path.
• Walking under a ladder.
• Dogs near a gambling table.
• The color black.
At some point we do rely on these myths to give us an edge. Sometimes, we look at it more intensely than taking the time to analyze the game. Of course, it's more reasonable to invest more time in pulling off strategies. But the thing is, they are harder. And when it comes to strategies, it's essentially mind-blowing.