Prehady

Prehady is a term primarily used in certain Slavic languages, including Slovak and Czech, to describe a type of folk superstition or belief. It generally refers to a sudden, often unexplained, negative occurrence or misfortune that is attributed to a specific, usually minor, event or action. These events are believed to be bad omens or portents of future trouble.

Examples of actions that might be considered prehady include crossing paths with a black cat, a bird flying into a house, or a salt shaker being spilled. The belief is that these incidents are not coincidental but rather signal an impending negative event or a period of bad luck. Consequently, people who believe in prehady often engage in rituals or actions to counteract the perceived ill omen. These countermeasures can vary widely, from spitting over their shoulder to ward off bad luck, to repeating a specific phrase or performing a small symbolic act.

The concept of prehady is rooted in traditional folk culture and is less commonly held as a literal belief in modern, secular societies. However, echoes of these superstitions can still be found in cultural practices and expressions. It reflects a historical worldview where the natural and supernatural were closely intertwined, and where everyday occurrences were imbued with deeper, often symbolic, meaning. Understanding prehady provides insight into the cultural beliefs and anxieties of past generations.