Myth refers to beliefs and actions based on fear, ignorance, or misunderstanding of natural and supernatural causes – often without scientific or logical basis – and can exist individually or collectively. In fact, the foundation of superstitions and magic is built on the fear and ignorance of humans. In the past, superstitions were a part of human history and a reflection of their attempt to understand the world around them. These beliefs have existed in various forms throughout history and in different cultures and societies. In ancient civilizations, superstitions were often intertwined with religion and mythology, and people turned to superstitions and supernatural beliefs to interpret natural phenomena. For example, the ancient Egyptians believed that the sun traveled on a boat every night in the underworld, and this journey caused the sunrise and sunset. With the advancement of science, many of these beliefs have faded or disappeared, but they still remain in many cultures – even with great power.

But myths or “nonsense” in the language means “corruption of the mind from arrogance”. In addition to this, there are other meanings related to it, which are similar to a kind of mental nonsense, mentioned in the works of linguists. One of the closest of these is the interpretation of “mythical tale”. In a story, a man named Bahnam Kharafeh from the Banu ‘Udhra or Juheinah tribe is the subject. He went among the jinn, then returned and narrated stories from them. These stories became popular and became known as “mythical tales”. In one narration, Aisha asked the Prophet of Islam about this and it is said that in this narration, the Prophet considered the narrator’s words to be true. However, these stories were not very accurate, and from here, the word “myth and myths” came to mean something that is false, but pleasant and enjoyable. (1)

As mentioned, one of the most important roots of false beliefs or superstitions must be sought in the fear of humans from phenomena for which there was no clear and tangible reason. This fear and terror, when mixed with religion, resulted in very terrifying answers, such as sacrificing humans to different gods in order to be protected from their wrath. During the Middle Ages (5th to 15th centuries AD), superstitions spread throughout Europe for a thousand years. Of course, this does not mean that they did not exist before these centuries. But with the presence of religion in human life, their form and nature also changed. People believed in spirits, magic, spells, and divination, and the church also reinforced these beliefs or used them to control society. The lack of medical and scientific knowledge also led to many events being attributed to supernatural factors. A combination of ignorance, fear, and religious domination led to the growth of superstitions during this period. In the Middle Ages, superstitions in Europe

In Iran, superstitions are a combination of ancient, religious, and cultural beliefs. Despite advancements in science and technology, some of these beliefs are still prevalent among the people and make up a part of their cultural identity. The roots of superstitions in Iran can be traced back to ancient times and the ancient history of this land, and like many other cultures, they have roots in history, religion, and folk beliefs. Iran, as one of the oldest civilizations in the world, has a diverse culture and beliefs that have evolved over thousands of years. These beliefs have been passed down from generation to generation and have shaped Iranian culture and traditions. In Iran, as in Europe, this combination of religion and superstition is observed due to similar reasons mentioned above. Throughout Iranian history, these beliefs existed even before the advent of Islam and were a part of the culture and beliefs of the people. These beliefs had roots in Zoroastrianism and Mithraism. Respect for natural elements such as

Roman historians say: Shahpour II, through the use of diviners, dealt with all evil spirits and demonic forces and asked them about the future. Yazdgerd I also assigned the court astrologers to find the fate of his newborn son. Khosrow II also gathered all the diviners, sorcerers, and astrologers, who were 360 in number, to consult with them and determine an auspicious hour. However, when his plans did not succeed, he destroyed many of them. By comparing the superstitions of pre-Islamic Iran with other nations, one can trace the roots and origins of customs, religions, myths, and various beliefs. Then it can be emphasized that humans can close their eyes to everything, except for their own superstitions and beliefs, as one scholar said: “Man is an animal addicted to superstition.” (2).

After the arrival of Islam in Iran, many Islamic beliefs and ancient Iranian traditions were combined and, of course, some of these combinations turned into superstitions. The roots of superstitions in Iran must be seen in a combination of history, religion, culture, and local traditions that have developed over time and have become part of cultural identity. Despite the presence of science and technology, many of these superstitions are still prevalent among the people. However, can superstitions and strange beliefs exist without exploitation and misuse? Crimes related to superstitions must be examined alongside the phenomenon itself. Nevertheless, these activities have existed in various forms throughout history and have continued to evolve and perpetuate their unfortunate existence with social, religious, and legal changes. However, the relationship between religion and superstition is a complex and multifaceted subject that has been discussed and studied throughout history. Religion and superstition are sometimes intertwined and sometimes distinct from each other. Both phenomena believe in supernatural forces, which can be gods, spirits,

Islam, on the surface, sees superstitions as “shirk” or deviation from monotheism. Practices such as fortune-telling or divination were considered shirk in the eyes of Islam, and attributing evil to things like birds or numbers is not compatible with the principle of monotheism. Additionally, Islam repeatedly calls upon humans to think, reason, and distance themselves from ignorance in the Quran. In verse 164 of Surah Al-Baqarah, God asks people to contemplate the creation of the heavens, earth, and nature. However, in Islamic history and culture, superstitions have often existed in the lives of many Muslims and the line between religion and superstition is often blurred. But why, despite the emphasis of Islam on avoiding superstitions and false beliefs, is this still a social and legal concern in Islamic societies, especially in Iran? In general, one of the reasons for the existence of superstitions and related abuses is ignorance and illiteracy. There is generally

The history of crimes related to fortune-telling and superstition in Iran has a direct connection to social changes and the attitudes of society and the government towards these activities. From ancient times until now, these activities have existed in various forms and have been dealt with differently depending on the social and religious conditions. Currently, with an emphasis on science and Islamic laws, these activities are considered a crime and are defined as illegal, although not explicitly.

Fighting superstition and irrational beliefs may seem very difficult and sometimes impossible, but it is not impossible. To break free from the chains of superstition and irrational beliefs, a multi-faceted approach is needed that targets both cultural and social roots and also changes people’s mindset. This includes education and increasing awareness through public education programs on television, radio, and social media, as well as easy and accessible access to credible religious resources, which itself faces significant challenges in Iran and the current situation. Building trust is essential before anything else in implementing such programs. Science and scientific thinking, dialogue with experts, reforming public culture, revisiting traditions, and utilizing art and literature can also play a significant and lasting role in eradicating society from the shackles of superstition and false beliefs. Additionally, using influential public speakers and fighting against exploitation and its agents through people’s ignorance and fears, as well as supporting the activities of grassroots and NGOs and utilizing legal measures against offenders, charlatans,

However, as mentioned, there are fundamental challenges on this path. Challenges such as cultural resistance, poverty and hopelessness, and a lack of collective will that has clear solutions, but are not easily accessible in Iran today. A general look at the pages of newspapers and various media outlets shows that fortune-telling and divination are a social problem that many individuals and families fall victim to its economic and social consequences. The deception of fortune-tellers and diviners not only imposes huge costs on individuals through methods such as fortune-telling, spell-casting, witchcraft, and palm-reading, but in many cases, it also destroys families. Some reports show that about 5% of divorces are related to fortune-telling, divination, and witchcraft in society. In addition, other crimes such as sexual abuse, fraud, and theft are also committed by fortune-tellers, and many cases in this regard have been filed in the courts, especially in big cities. Writing lucky charms,

Despite the lack of legal transparency in declaring crimes against fortune tellers, diviners, and fortune tellers, in Iran, their activities are often considered illegal under these same laws and can be classified as fraud or deception. These individuals take advantage of people’s ignorance and vulnerability, and if their crimes are proven, they may face penalties such as fines or imprisonment. However, these penalties have not been able to effectively prevent their actions, and an interesting point is that among the clients of this group of fraudsters, one can find a diverse range of society, from the wealthy to the lower class, and it seems that this story will continue.

Notes:

1- The history of superstition in Islamic civilization.

Online news.

December 15th, 2013

2- Superstitions in Iran before Islam/ What are universal superstitions?

Mehr News Agency.

November 6th, 2012.

3- Legal punishment for fortune-telling and divination.

Irna.

“1 Tir 1390.”