Chinese gambling superstitions have a long, rich tradition, much like gambling itself. This is not all that surprising when you consider that the Chinese are among the most superstitious people the world over. You might not personally subscribe to this practice, but there’s no question that those who do have gone on to lead successful lives. Whether or not there is any correlation between Chinese gambling superstitions and financial success at the tables is a matter of opinion. Below you will find eight popular (and lucky; you’ll see why soon) Chinese gambling superstitions you just might want to consider following the next time you place your bets.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #1: Wearing Red
In Chinese culture the color red symbolizes good fortune and joyous celebration. Gamblers seeking good fortune in the casino wear red underwear when playing in the hopes of garnering big wins.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #2: Lucky Numbers
Chinese people believe deeply in the power of certain numbers. Apply numerology when performing your lottery picks, choosing your hotel room, or deciding where to place certain bets in games like roulette. Avoid the number 4, which is considered to be unlucky. Instead, stick to 3s, 6s, and 9s and use them in combination with the number 8. The number 8 is thought to be closely related to prosperity.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #3: Avoid Sex
Similar to professional athletes, Chinese people believe that abstaining from sex before a gambling session can be beneficial. This advice applies equally to men and women.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #4: Praying to the Gambling Gods
Unsurprisingly, prayer is a big component of Chinese gambling superstitions. Prayers and offerings to the gods are encouraged. This is especially true on the day of a lottery. The idea is that if the gods are pleased, they will reward you in return for your efforts.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #5: Time of the Month
This superstition applies to females only. A somewhat indelicate topic, but this superstition is based on the belief that women who are menstruating when they gamble are more likely to achieve a positive outcome.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #6: Hand Washing
This gambling superstition is also popular with Westerners. The theory here is that washing your hands can change your luck for good or bad. If you’re losing, wash your hands. But if you are fortunate enough to find yourself on a winning streak, don’t wash away the good mojo.
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #7: Counting Money
Just like Kenny Rogers foretold in The Gambler, the Chinese firmly believe that you shouldn’t “count your money, while you’re sitting at the table. There’ll be time enough for counting, when the dealing’s done.”
Chinese Gambling Superstitions #8: Feng Shui
One’s surroundings can be positive or negative according to Chinese superstition. The MGM Grand famously changed its entrance because it had been forcing patrons to enter through the mouth of a lion, which was thought to be bad luck according to ancient philosophy.
