The evil eye is a curse believed to be cast by a malevolent glare, usually given to a person when they are unaware. Many cultures believe that receiving the evil eye will cause misfortune or injury. Talismans created to protect against the evil eye are also frequently called "evil eyes".
The idea expressed by the term causes many different cultures to pursue protective measures against it. The concept and its significance vary widely among different cultures, primarily in West Asia. The idea appears several times in translations of the Old Testament. It was a widely extended belief among many Mediterranean and Asian tribes and cultures. The colour blue is thought to have a strong protective function against evil.
Charms and decorations with eye-like symbols known as "nazar" or "máti", which are used to repel the evil eye are a common sight in the Levant, and have become a popular choice of souvenir with tourists. A typical nazar is made of glass featuring concentric circles or teardrop shapes in dark blue, white, light blue and black, occasionally with a yellow/gold edge. As a legacy of the Turkish Ottoman Empire, it is a common sight in Turkey, Romania, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, Southern Italy (Naples), Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Armenia, Iran, Afghanistan, Iraq and Azerbaijan, where the nazar is often hung in homes, offices, cars, children's clothing, or incorporated in jewellery and ornaments.
This post is part of the Blue Monday meme,
and also part of the Macro Monday meme,
Good morning Nick, Your story about the evil eye was very interesting. I can tell you my mother could use her evil on us (six kids) and we knew it meant misfortune or injury. LOL. We were well behaved children believe me. I have to add, we were lucky to have wonderful parents and a happy childhood.
ReplyDeleteThe glass evil eyes are actually pretty. A very good photo. The perfect blue for Blue Monday. I am not superstitious, though I know many people are. Great post today.
Thanks for joining in the fun.
Jeanne
Very informative about the evil eye. Lots of pretty blues
ReplyDeleteThis made me smile:) I wonder if you are one who likes to tell scary stories by the fire in winter. Many thanks for sharing these pretty blue eyes with SEASONS! Have a great week!
ReplyDelete