parashënzën

Parashënzën is a term used in some Albanian dialects to refer to a specific type of folklore or superstition. It generally describes a premonition or foreboding, often a feeling that something significant, usually negative, is about to happen. This feeling is not necessarily based on logical deduction but on an intuition or an inexplicable sense of unease.

The concept of parashënzën often intertwines with traditional beliefs and is sometimes attributed to supernatural influences or messages from the spiritual world. While not a formal religious doctrine, it is a part of the cultural fabric in regions where it is used. Individuals who experience parashënzën might interpret it as a warning, prompting them to take precautions or to be more vigilant. The interpretation and significance of parashënzën can vary greatly from person to person and community to community. It is generally considered a personal experience, although shared stories and beliefs about it contribute to its understanding within a cultural context. The term itself derives from the word "parë," meaning "seen" or "foreseen," and "shënzën," which can relate to a sign or portent.