Science Vs Superstition

Saudi Arabian Superstitions

Scary stories and supernatural tales are told to discourage risky behavior in children, especially about wandering alone or at night
Associating specific signs, animals, or events (like seeing a black cat or crow) with good or bad omens is common
Certain sites, like ancient ruins, are avoided due to beliefs they are haunted or cursed
Exorcisms (ruqya) are performed to expel jinn or evil spirits believed to cause illness or misfortune
Wearing amulets (taʿwīdh) with Quranic verses protects against the evil eye and other harm
Shooting stars are sometimes believed to be angels throwing meteors at devils (shayatin), and cursing shayatin upon seeing one is common
Saying “dastur” before pouring hot water or urinating outdoors warns jinn to leave and prevents their anger
Ghouls (ghul) and jinn are believed to inhabit cemeteries and deserted places, with various rituals to avoid offending or encountering them
The legend of Umm Al-Saaf and Al-Leil (the witch in the palm trees) is used to scare children from wandering outside, especially during windy weather
Tales like Humar Al-Qaylah (Midday Donkey) warn children against going out at noon, believed to harm those it encounters