Why Does Breaking a Mirror Bring 7 Years of Bad Luck? Discover the Origins of This Myth

For centuries, the belief that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck has been deeply embedded in various cultures. But where did this superstition come from, and why seven years? In this blog, we’ll explore the origins of this ancient myth and its lasting impact on modern-day beliefs.

The Origins of the Broken Mirror Superstition

The idea that mirrors hold mystical power dates back to ancient civilizations. The Romans, in particular, believed that mirrors not only reflected one’s physical appearance but also their soul. According to their lore, damaging a mirror would harm the soul trapped inside, causing it to become distorted or broken. The seven-year timeline is thought to stem from the Roman belief that it took seven years for life to renew itself. In this view, after a mirror was broken, the soul would endure misfortune until it was restored to its natural state over seven years.

Other civilizations also linked mirrors to the supernatural. In some ancient cultures, mirrors were thought to possess the ability to reveal one’s true spirit or reflect hidden truths. The idea of a broken mirror releasing bad spirits or altering the course of one’s fate is a reflection of how mirrors have been symbolically associated with life, destiny, and self-awareness.

Why Seven Years?

The number seven holds special significance in many cultural and religious contexts. For instance, in ancient astrology, seven was considered a complete cycle—referring to the seven classical planets (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn), which influenced human life. Thus, breaking a mirror was seen as an interruption of a complete cycle of good fortune, bringing a period of misfortune that would last until the cycle was restored.

The notion of seven years of bad luck continued to be passed down through generations, eventually solidifying its place in popular culture. Even in the present day, many people avoid breaking mirrors for fear of inviting bad luck.

How to Break the Curse

Over time, various remedies have been suggested to break the curse of seven years of bad luck. One popular method involves gathering the shattered pieces of the mirror and burying them in the ground under moonlight. Others believe that tossing salt over one’s left shoulder or burning the broken fragments can reverse the ill effects.

Merit Home: Creating Custom Designer Mirrors to Last a Lifetime

While we can’t guarantee you’ll avoid bad luck forever, at Merit Home, we believe in crafting bespoke mirrors that reflect the best of your personal style. Whether you’re looking for a unique design or a luxurious, handcrafted statement piece, our custom-made mirrors are created with the utmost care and precision to ensure they last for generations.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for in our shop, we offer bespoke designer mirrors tailored specifically to your needs. Whether for your home, office, or commercial space, our custom mirrors blend elegance with craftsmanship, ensuring that every piece is not only a mirror but a work of art.

To explore more of our collection or inquire about a custom order, visit our website. With Merit Home, you can rest assured knowing your mirrors are designed to reflect your style and built to stand the test of time.

Conclusion

While breaking a mirror might still send a chill down your spine, understanding the myth’s origins helps us appreciate the cultural significance behind this age-old superstition. In the meantime, keep your mirrors intact and your spaces beautiful by investing in high-quality designs that bring light and life into your home—no bad luck included!