Spiders can give people mixed feelings – some are scared of them, while others see them as lucky. As a kid, my grandma taught me we should never kill spiders because it’s like throwing away money. But different cultures view spiders in their own unique ways.
Some think spiders bring good luck and prosperity. Others see them as creepy pests to avoid at all costs. Across the world, spiders play different symbolic roles shaped by traditions and beliefs passed down over generations.
13 Common Superstitions About Spiders

Harbingers of Fortune
- Money Spinners: In many cultures, small spiders are called “money spiders.” Spotting one is thought to herald incoming wealth, especially if it crawls on you.
- Web of Prosperity: Finding a spider web in your home is often considered a sign of good luck and financial gain. Some believe it’s best to leave these webs undisturbed to ensure continued fortune.
- Wealth and Prosperity: Spotting a spider, especially in the evening, is considered a sign that wealth or good fortune is on its way. Some even believe that finding a spider in your home brings prosperity.
Omens And Warnings
- Weather Predictors: Some folklore suggests that spiders can forecast weather changes. If you see them spinning larger webs, it might indicate fair weather ahead.
- Rainy Weather: In parts of Europe, it’s believed that if a spider is spotted scurrying across the floor, rain is imminent.
- Nocturnal Encounters: Seeing a spider at night is sometimes interpreted as a warning of impending danger or a call to be more vigilant.
- Visitors or Guests: A common superstition says that if a spider hangs down from its web and dangles in front of you, it foretells the arrival of a visitor or guest.
Relationship And Love Lore
- Marriage Indicators: In some traditions, spotting a spider on your wedding dress is considered extremely lucky, promising a happy marriage.
- Love Messengers: Certain cultures believe that if a spider dangles in front of you, it’s bringing news about a loved one.
Protection And Guardianship
- Home Guardians: Many households view spiders as protectors, keeping other pests at bay and maintaining balance in the home ecosystem.
- Spiritual Guides: In some Native American traditions, spiders are seen as wise creatures, offering guidance and protection.
Creativity And Problem-Solving
- Inspiration for Perseverance: The patience and skill of spiders in web-building have inspired beliefs about determination and creative problem-solving.
- Dream Weavers: Dreaming of spiders is often interpreted as a sign of creative energy and the need to weave one’s own destiny.

Do Spiders Really Bring Good Luck?
You’ve probably heard that spiders are good luck. But where does this idea come from? The origins of this superstition are a bit murky, but some theories suggest it dates back to ancient times.
One popular explanation traces it to the folklore of various cultures, where spiders were seen as symbols of patience, perseverance, and industriousness – qualities that were believed to attract prosperity and abundance. In many ancient civilizations, spiders were revered for their ability to spin intricate webs, a skill that required immense focus and dedication. This admiration for the spider’s diligence and hard work led to the belief that their presence brought good fortune and wealth.
Another theory points to the legend of Robert the Bruce, the Scottish king who supposedly gained inspiration to continue his fight for independence after witnessing a spider’s persistent attempts to spin its web. According to the tale, Bruce was hiding in a cave, feeling defeated and ready to give up his quest for Scottish freedom. As he watched a small spider repeatedly trying to build its web, only to have it collapse time and time again, Bruce was struck by the creature’s unwavering determination. Inspired by the spider’s resilience, he resolved to continue his struggle against the English, ultimately leading to Scotland’s independence. From this legendary encounter, the belief that spiders bring luck was born.
But is there any truth to this superstition? Well, scientifically speaking, there’s no evidence to suggest that spiders have any direct influence on our luck or financial well-being. They’re simply fascinating creatures doing their thing, spinning webs, and keeping the insect population in check. However, as my grandmother used to say, “Killing a spider is like throwing money out the window!” She firmly believed that spiders were harbingers of prosperity and that harming them would bring misfortune.
If you’re a believer in the power of positive thinking and symbolism, then perhaps the presence of a spider can serve as a reminder to embrace qualities like determination and hard work, which could ultimately lead to success and prosperity. After all, what harm is there in finding inspiration in nature’s wonders, even if they come in the form of a eight-legged creature?