The world is full of ghost superstitions, and no civilization was immune to thoughts of life after death, restless spirits, and unresolved issues.
For this article, I’ve collected ghost superstitions that are still relevant today, especially for those entering the ghost hunting tradition.
Enjoy!
1. Midnight
Throughout Europe and the Americas, the most common time for ghosts to appear is midnight. It’s believed they seldom appear before dark and they never appear on Christmas Eve.
2. Blue Flame
Candle flame will burn blue if a ghost is present.
3. Loud Sound
A loud sound, like a clap or bang, is often heard before the appearance of a ghost.
4. Speech
Some believe that ghosts cannot speak until they are spoken to.
5. Feather Duster Protection
Placing a feather duster in a doorway is said to keep ghosts at bay.
6. Running Water
Ghost are unable to cross over running water. It’s said that if a ghost or spirit is chasing you, run over a stream and it will not be able to follow you.
7. Silver Bullet
Ghosts can be “killed” with silver bullets.
8. Name Called
If a ghost calls your name and you answer it, you will soon be dead.
9. Horses
Some believe that horses can see ghosts. If you also wish to see them, place your head between the horse’s ears and have a look.
10. Seventh Son
The seventh son in a family will be born with the ability to see ghosts.
11. Cold Spots
Unexplained cold areas in a room or sudden drops in temperature are often attributed to the presence of a ghost, based on the idea that a spirit absorbs energy from its surroundings.
12. Anniversary Ghosts
There’s a belief that the ghosts of deceased individuals return on the anniversary of their death.
13. Cats and Dogs
It’s a common superstition that animals, particularly cats and dogs, are sensitive to ghosts and can see or sense them. Their unexplained barking, growling, or staring at seemingly empty spaces is sometimes attributed to the presence of a spirit.
14. Haunted Objects
Ghosts can attach themselves to objects, especially items that were important to them while alive or that belonged to them, like jewelry, furniture, or dolls.
15. Photographs
Some people believe that taking a photo of a ghost can either trap it or that spirits can appear in developed photographs, often seen as orbs, strange lights, or inexplicable figures in the background.
