Mini Chime Candle Holder: Evil Eye
A cute little glazed ceramic incense holder for our smaller chime candles (sold here).
Holders are sold in singles.
About the Turkish Blue Eye (Nazar Boncugu) (info from the following link: ABOUT the Evil Eye
If
you find yourself with a sudden run of bad luck, or the target of an
envious person, invest in a blue Turkish evil eye. Also known as the
Nazar Amulet, or Nazar Boncugu, some use this item as a talisman, while
others use a good luck charm. Any visitor on a trip to Turkey will see
it everywhere, from jewellery shops to offices to homes and even worn by
some as jewellery.
It is the most popular souvenir sold in
various forms. Instantly recognizable by its blue, white, and turquoise
circles, locals in some places still use it culturally and give at
weddings and births. In contrast, others brush it off as pure
superstition and use it for symbolic décor or aesthetic purposes only.
But what is the meaning and history behind it, and is it worth wearing
one?
Nazar Meaning
The meaning is clear in the name. Not
that the actual item is evil, but folklore promotes it as something to
ward off the gaze of misfortune, jealousy, envy, negative energy such as
hate, and spite. Some believe they are talismans, which ward off a
curse and bring blessings and positive energy at the same time. For
example, a dear friend might give it to the bride in case she is the
envy of other women who wish to get married. Likewise, when a child is
born, it is of pure innocence, hence the lucky-charm is protection
against negativity surrounding them.
History of the Evil Eye
Although
it is widely popular in Turkey, it appears in many cultures, including
Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries, and Hebrew texts of Judaism.
There are also Buddhist and Tibetan versions. Some research shows the
eye-protection first appearing in classical Greece, but other
publications suggest its origins lay in North African countries and
Egypt. Some connections also compare it to Medusa. After Perseus cut her
head off, anyone looking into her mystical eyes, which brimmed with
evil energy, turned to stone; hence the eye symbolizes the act. The
reason for the colour blue is unclear, but in ancient times, many
Turkish urban legends suggested anyone who had blue eyes was full of
evil spirits. Regardless, its cultural importance is still significant
enough for UNESCO to list the beliefs, practises and craftsmanship on
their intangible heritage list. In the Anatolian area of Cappadocia,
many trees also have the blue sapphire charm hanging off the branches.