Knock on wood, steer clear of black cats, and run from broken mirrors. Superstitions abound. What kinds of omens exist in other cultures?

Brazil
Watch out for brooms! Many South Americans believe that if a broom sweeps over your feet, you’ll never get married. How do you break the “curse”? Spit on the broom. 

Caribbean
Which palm itches? Let’s hope it’s your right one. An itchy right palm supposedly means you’re about to come into some money. An itchy left palm means you’ll owe money soon. 

Spain
Keep your collard greens and black-eyed peas, American Southerners. Spaniards bring in the New Year with 12 grapes. Each grape represents a month of the upcoming year. Choose small ones and gobble fast. It’s considered bad luck if you don’t finish all the grapes by the time the clock strikes its 12th note. 

Russia
Whistling is fine and dandy—unless you’re indoors. Then it leads to financial problems. Save the catchy tunes for outdoor fun.

China
Maybe you’ve heard that some think the number 13 is unlucky 13. But it’s number four that makes some folks in China quake. The word “death” makes a similar sound.  

Some quip, “It’s bad luck to be superstitious!” Why do you think so many people look for superstitions and omens to believe in? 

Christians know there’s no such thing as good or bad luck. You’ve had great days without knocking on wood. You’ve also probably met some friendly black cats and walked away from a broken mirror unharmed. 

The Bible teaches that God oversees all that happens on the Earth. God told the Israelites, “My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.” (Isaiah 46:10)