Superstitions

Superstitions have a great place in society and most people exhibit some sort of superstitious behavior without even realizing it. For example the mother of the author does not clean the house on Fridays, does not cut her nails at nights, reverse her slippers when a dog howls, knocks on wood and pulls her ear when talking about bad illnesses (as if this acting will prevent us from illness!!!) and incenses the family members against the “evil eye”. Nazar Boncuk is an indispensable accessory of houses, offices (even of our office), cars, busses and trucks.

You'll see the word MaŞallah, meaning “May God preserve from the evil”, written on trucks. Incidentally, "MaŞallah" is the name of the largest transportation company of the country. Almost all foreigners return to their countries taking Nazar Boncuk (the evil eye) with them as presents.

You may see some trees with small clothes tied to their branches. There are “vow” trees! One day somebody says, “I have seen this tree in my dream and tied a cloth around it and had my wish granted.” And then everybody begins to tie ribbons and colored clothes.

The person who has a new job usually buys sweets for his/her family and friends with the first salary. “Let's eat sweet, talk sweet” is the general sentiment.

A glass of water is poured after someone goes on a trip, so that his travel will be as easy as water.

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