sattumaisissa

Sattumaisissa is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "in coincidences" or "by chance." It is often used in everyday conversation to describe events that occur unexpectedly or without any apparent cause or planning. The concept is closely related to the idea of luck or serendipity.

In Finnish culture, there is a certain acceptance and even appreciation for sattumaisissa. While many people believe in causality and logical explanations for events, there's also a recognition that sometimes things simply happen. This can be seen in how people might shrug off an unexpected positive outcome as sattumaisissa, or conversely, attribute a minor misfortune to the same phenomenon.

The term is not typically associated with specific superstitions or rituals. Instead, it reflects a more philosophical outlook on the unpredictable nature of life. It acknowledges that not all events can be foreseen or controlled, and that sometimes the best approach is to accept these occurrences as part of the natural flow of things. Whether it's finding a lost item unexpectedly or bumping into an old friend on the street, these instances can be categorized as sattumaisissa. The sentiment often carries a gentle acknowledgment of the world's mysterious workings.