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The Ancient Origins of the Evil Eye

The evil eye is a supernatural belief rooted in the malevolent power of a glare, often fueled by envy. Its history spans back 5,000 years, making it one of humanity’s oldest and most enduring superstitions

1. Prehistoric Beginnings:

• Upper Paleolithic Age: Even in ancient times, people recognized the potential harm caused by envious glances. Amulets to protect against the evil eye have been discovered from this era
• Ugarit: Texts from this ancient Syrian port city (around 1180 BC) attest to the concept of the evil eye during the late Bronze Age collapse

2. Greek and Roman Influence:

• In Classical antiquity, the Greeks and Romans referenced the “mati” (evil eye) in their writings. Authors like Hesiod, Plato, and Pliny the Elder explored its power and protective measures
• Artefacts from the Mediterranean and Levant regions reveal the prevalence of this belief .

3. Symbolism and Protection:

• The evil eye is found in various cultures, including Jewish, Muslim, and Christian traditions.
• Nazar amulets, shaped like an eye, and the hamsa, a hand-shaped talisman, are famous protections against the evil eye.
• Glass evil eye beads gained popularity with the Phoenicians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans around 1500 BC

4. Regional Variations:

• Southern Italy: Here, amulets like the cornicello, cimaruta, and the sign of the horns are used for protection.
• Arab Culture: Saying “Masha’Allah” alongside a compliment prevents envy from attracting the evil eye.
• Brazil: Certain plants, like rue, are believed to guard against its influence.

5. A Timeless Guardian:

• Pregnant women, children, and animals are considered particularly susceptible to the evil eye.
• Despite cultural shifts and modernization, belief in its power persists worldwide