It is considered bad luck to begin a journey during Friday prayer time.

Bad Luck Belief Surrounding Friday Prayer Departures

Details

According to this superstition, individuals are advised to avoid beginning travel — especially long or important journeys — during the time designated for Friday prayer (Jumu’ah) in the Islamic tradition, generally occurring at midday. The belief implies that departing during this time may lead to bad luck, accidents, or divine disfavor. In practice, people may delay travel until after the prayer is completed or begin their journey early in the morning to avoid conflict. While some cite spiritual obligation as the reason, others believe that travel during this time interrupts the blessings or protection that prayer provides. In many communities, this superstition results in adjusted travel plans every Friday, notably in rural or conservative areas.

Historical Context

This belief finds its roots in cultural interpretations of Islamic teachings regarding the importance of Friday congregational prayer (Jumu’ah). In many Muslim-majority societies, Friday at midday is a sacred and communal moment of worship, and stepping away for travel might have been viewed as a sign of disrespect, neglect of religious duties, or spiritual vulnerability. Over time, this practical religious consideration transformed into a superstition in a number of cultural contexts. Particularly in agrarian or closely-knit communities, religious observance and daily habits were deeply intertwined, and failing to attend Friday prayers could be seen as inviting divine displeasure or misfortune. Thus, abstaining from beginning travel at that time may have emerged as a preventive cultural norm, passed down as superstition.

Modern Relevance

In modern society, especially within urban and more secular settings, this superstition is less commonly followed, though it still exists anecdotally in traditional or rural communities within South Asia, the Middle East, and parts of North and East Africa. Among practicing Muslims who uphold a traditional lifestyle, it remains common to plan trips in a way that accommodates Friday prayers. Social media discussions sometimes reflect this superstition, with posts warning travelers or encouraging prayer compliance before leaving. However, with increased flexibility in travel, online work, and modified prayer arrangements, the belief is more of a cultural relic than a widespread deterrent. Its modern persistence is often limited to elderly populations or those deeply embedded in religious customs.

Sources

Esposito, John L. (2003). The Oxford Dictionary of Islam. Oxford University Press.

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