Narcissus (1728) by François Le Moyne
On Friday, October 13, 1307, King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of hundreds of Templars, including their Grand Master, Jacques de Molay. This marked the beginning of the fall of the order.
The Knights Templar, a wealthy and powerful medieval Christian military order, had gained significant influence due to their roles in the Crusades and their banking operations. However, their wealth and autonomy made them a target for Philip IV, who was deeply in debt to them. By accusing the Templars of heresy, blasphemy, and other charges (many of which were likely fabricated), Philip sought to disband the order and seize their assets.
The Friday the 13th association with bad luck, while rooted in this event, didn’t immediately become widespread. Over time, however, the date and the events surrounding the Templars contributed to the superstition that Friday the 13th is an unlucky day.
Bronze hand used in the worship of Sabazios. Hands decorated with religious symbols were designed to stand in sanctuaries or, like this one, were attached to poles for processional use.
Date: Roman 1st–2nd century AD.
Collection: British Museum.
