Unlucky Numbers In Gambling: Superstition Or Truth?

Gambling is full of superstitions. From lucky charms to special numbers that affect your winning chances, either positively or negatively, players can always find something to believe in. The concept of lucky & unlucky numbers has been present in our minds for centuries, and it continues to influence the way we approach many things, including casino games.

Everyone should have heard about 13 or 666 as numbers that should be avoided at all costs, or 7 as the luckiest number. Are these beliefs true? In this article, we will explain everything about unlucky numbers in gambling, look into the origins of these superstitions, and see whether there is any truth behind the belief that certain numbers are blessed or cursed.

Unlucky Numbers in Different Cultures

Popular gambling superstitions often touch upon lucky and unlucky numbers. While some numbers are considered lucky among casino players and help them win jackpots, the others are “cursed”. These superstitions about unlucky numbers in gambling vary across different cultures and have different backgrounds. 

In Western societies, for example, 13 is commonly believed to bring bad luck. This fear is so prevalent that many hotels and office buildings skip the 13th floor, jumping from 12th to 14th. Known as triskaidekaphobia, this phenomenon has its roots in Christianity. Judas, the one who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th guest at the Last Supper. This association with betrayal and death has led to the belief that this number is extremely unlucky. In most countries, Friday 13th is heavily associated with misfortune even today.

Other cultures have other unlucky numbers in gambling. Indians think that number 8 is unlucky. This belief has its roots in the ancient practice of numerology, where each number is assigned a specific meaning or vibration. In numerology, 8 is associated with Saturn, the planet of limitations and obstacles. As a result, it is believed that those born under the influence of 8 will face numerous challenges and difficulties throughout their lives. This superstition has carried over into gambling, where the number is often avoided by those seeking good fortune at online casinos in India.

In China, 4 is thought to be a bad number. This is due to the fact that the pronunciation of the word word for “four” – “Si” – sounds similar to the word for death – “Siwang.” As a result, many Chinese people avoid it at all costs. Just like with 13, some buildings skip the fourth floor. Additionally, phone numbers and license plates containing the number 4 are often viewed as undesirable and avoided whenever possible.

Examples of Unlucky Numbers in Gambling Games

Sometimes, superstitions about unlucky numbers in gambling have nothing to do with culture or religion because they emerged right at the casino table. They are different from commonly avoided numbers like 4, 13 or 666 that gamblers try to avoid in many games at online gambling sites in India. These superstitions touch upon numbers in specific games: roulette, blackjack, and craps.

For example, 17 is considered unlucky by many roulette players. This belief originated from a story about Sean Connery’s win in an Italian casino in 1963. Connery placed a bet on the number 17 three times in a row and won each time. This unusual streak led to a myth that number 17 is lucky.

However, in the following years, many players began to believe that 17 lost its power because of Connery’s unrealistic win. Moreover, it was later revealed that the actor’s success in roulette was rigged: the James Bond movie makers faked Connery hitting a jackpot to gain attention from the press and ensure his first 007 film was successful.

In blackjack, 16 is often viewed as a bad number but for a different reason. This is because a hand of 16 has high chances of busting or going over 21. Finally, there is number 7. While 7 is often considered lucky, it is viewed as so-so in craps. This is because rolling this number after the come-out roll in craps results in a “seven-out,” ending the current round and potentially causing players to lose their bets. 

Lucky Numbers in Casino Games

Gamblers believe that there are also lucky numbers bringing good fortune. Like their counterparts, lucky numbers differ from one culture to another. For example, Chinese believe associate 8 with wealth and prosperity. Many local gamblers prefer to place bets that involve this number hoping to increase their chances of winning.

In Europe and North America, number 7 is often seen as lucky. This belief can be traced back to various religious and cultural references, such as the seven days of the week and the seven wonders of the world. Seven is also widely used in slot machines, where hitting the jackpot on a combination involving this number is seen as a stroke of luck. That’s why many slots at King Billy Casino and other similar sites often have number 7 in their title or as one of the playing symbols.

Are Superstitions About Unlucky Numbers Justified?

While superstitions surrounding lucky and unlucky numbers in gambling may often seem irrational, they can have a real impact on a player’s mindset and behavior. The power of belief is a strong force, and if a gambler thinks that a certain number is good or bad, he may subconsciously make decisions that align with this belief.

That’s why many gamblers usually avoid bets that involve unlucky numbers and tend to bet on lucky ones, but it can be a mistake because casinos also know about these beliefs. We don’t say that they are rigged, of course, but dealers and other players may notice your bias, especially if there are open cards on the table. Additionally, the fear of an unlucky number can create bias, anxiety and stress, which can negatively affect his performance, especially in social games.

There is no scientific evidence about certain numbers being lucky or unlucky. The outcome of any casino game is mostly determined by probability, not by the numerical value of the bets placed. While it is true that certain numbers may have cultural or historical associations that make them seem lucky or unlucky, these associations are subjective and vary from person to person.

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