Evil eye
Videos
Page
The evil eye is a supernatural belief in a curse brought about by a malevolent glare, usually inspired by envy. The belief in the evil eye among humans has existed since prehistory, and amulets to protect against it have been found dating to about 5,000 years ago. It is estimated that around 40% of the world's population believes in the evil eye.
A person from Cairo, reputed to possess the evil eye.
Eye beads are one of many popular amulets and talismans used to ward off the evil eye.
Kylix eye cup (530–520 BC), inscribed with Chalcidian text. It features an eye motif, likely to ward off the evil eye.
Tree with nazars in Cappadocia, Turkey
Hamsa
Videos
Page
The hamsa, also known as the hand of Fatima, is a palm-shaped amulet popular throughout North Africa and in the Middle East and commonly used in jewellery and wall hangings. Depicting the open hand, an image recognized and used as a sign of protection in many times throughout history, the hamsa has been traditionally believed to provide defense against the evil eye.
A hanging hamsa in Tunisia
A Punic stela from Carthage dedicated to Tinnit and Baal Hammon with a carved open right hand, as well as sign of Tinnit, sign of Baal Hammon above, Caduceus and naval symbols
Hamsa Amulet
A ceramic hamsa depicting Jesus and his disciples