The Number 39 Is Considered Cursed in Afghanistan

Urban Shame and the Spread of a Modern Taboo

Details

According to contemporary Afghan superstition, the number 39 carries powerful associations with shame, sexual impropriety, and social disgrace. This numerical taboo manifests particularly regarding vehicle license plates containing 39, which sell at substantial discounts and may be difficult to resell. The prohibition extends to phone numbers, addresses, and in some cases even ages—some individuals report identifying as age 38 for two years to avoid the stigma. The taboo intensifies when the number appears in isolation, especially when linked to conspicuous items such as luxury vehicles or flashy mobile numbers that attract public attention.

Historical Context

This stigmatized number has unusually recent and specific origins:

The superstition emerged primarily in post-Taliban Afghanistan after 2001
An urban legend claims a notorious pimp in western Afghanistan used a car with registration number 39
In some Afghan dialects, 39 allegedly sounds similar to morda-gow (“dead cow”), a slang term with sexual connotations
Unlike traditional numerical superstitions rooted in religion or ancient numerology, this one spread through urban legend and modern gossip
Social media, mobile communication, and word-of-mouth rapidly transmitted the superstition across the country

This belief illustrates how numerological stigmas can emerge and flourish through contemporary mechanisms rather than religious doctrine or long-standing cultural practices.

Modern Relevance

This numerical avoidance remains remarkably powerful in contemporary Afghan society. Vehicle dealers report up to 80% reductions in price for cars with “39” on their license plates. Government offices receive constant appeals to change issued license numbers. Businesses and individuals go to great lengths to avoid the number in their branding, addresses, or contact information. The stigma has extended to Afghan diaspora communities abroad and into neighboring countries. This taboo exemplifies how urban legends and viral beliefs can evolve into widespread superstitions with real-world economic and social consequences, despite having no roots in traditional or religious frameworks.

Sources

Najibullah, F. (2011). “Kabul’s Taxi Drivers Crazy About Number Plates.” Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
Reynolds, L., & Besnier, N. (2018). “Urban Legends in Contemporary Belief.” Annual Review of Anthropology, 47, 67–84.

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