The concept of the “Evil Eye” is one of the oldest and most widespread superstitions in the world.

At the center of the belief is the idea that certain individuals possess the power to cause misfortune merely by looking at someone with envy or malevolence.

Although the history and nuances of the Evil Eye vary by region, some common threads can be found throughout various cultures.

Ancient Mesopotamia

Ancient Mesopotamia has left behind vast amounts of written records in the form of cuneiform tablets, and these texts give us a glimpse into their religious, societal, and beliefs.

The concept of the Evil Eye, while not always referred to in the exact terms familiar to us today, was indeed present in Mesopotamian culture.

The Sumerians, who inhabited this region, recorded spells and charms meant to protect against the Evil Eye.

Ancient Egypt

In ancient Egyptian culture, the Eye of Horus, or the “Wedjat Eye”, was a symbol that represented protection, power, and restoration.

The origin of this symbol lies in Egyptian mythology.

Horus, the falcon-headed god, was in a battle with Seth (the god of chaos) over the rule of Egypt.

During this battle, Horus lost his left eye, which was later restored by the god Thoth and this “restored” eye became a powerful symbol.

However, while the Eye of Horus is often associated with the Evil Eye, it’s a distinct concept, despite amulets and charms being worn as safeguards against similar themes.

Greece & Rome

In ancient Greece, the Evil Eye was called “baskania”, meaning “turning away” or “averting”.

The Greeks and Romans were deeply superstitious of the Evil Eye, and it is mentioned in many classical Roman texts.

Examples include authors such as Hesiod, Callimachus, Plato, Diodorus Siculus, Theocritus, Plutarch, Heliodorus, Pliny the Elder, and Aulus Gellius, and Plautus, who mentioned it in his plays.

India

In India, the Evil Eye is referred to as “drishti” (in Sanskrit), a term which literally translates to “sight” or “vision.”

To help protect against it, a common practice is to apply a black dot (usually of kohl or charcoal) on the face, often behind one ear or on the cheek.

Protective charms known as “Nazar”, which are blue and white eye-shaped amulets similar to the ones found in the Mediterranean, are sometimes worn in India to protect against the Evil Eye.

Another popular protective charm is made of a threaded string of chilies and a lemon and then hung on vehicles, outside homes, or in businesses to protect against the evil eye.

In some regions, certain hand gestures are also believed to help ward off or deflect the Evil Eye.

Latin America

The Evil Eye is also found in Latin American cultures and is known in Spanish as “mal de ojo” or simply “ojo”.

Just as in other cultures, wearing protective amulets is a common practice.

One such example is the “hamsa” or “mano de Fátima”, a palm-shaped talisman said to protect against the Evil Eye.

Another common symbol is the “ojito” or little eye, which resembles the blue eye amulets found in the Mediterranean.

Modern Manifestations

In the modern world, the Evil Eye has not only persisted but also become a cultural and fashion icon.

Jewellery, tattoos, and home decor items featuring the Evil Eye symbol are popular worldwide, and not just in places where the belief is prevalent.

Brands, celebrities, and influencers have adopted the symbol, sometimes for its aesthetic appeal and sometimes due to personal beliefs.

For example, Meghan Markle has been seen wearing Evil Eye protection charms, as has Jennifer Aniston.