Amulet

An amulet is an object that is said to ward off evil, protect the owner and bring good luck. Amulets are usually worn or carried by the person concerned, or sometimes placed in the person's environment (house, doors, windows, field etc.).

The word amulet is derived form the Latin word amuletum which means an object that protects one from trouble. The Arabic version is a talisman.

An amulet can be any object. Some common types of amulet are paper charms, gems, simple stones, coins, pendants, figurines, drawings, plants and animals. Sometimes certain words used in specific occasions (e.g. chants) are also referred to as amulets.

Amulets vary on the basis of religion, region and culture.

• Christians use the Cross, Crucifix and/or the Bible.
• Egyptians use the Eye of Horus.
• Jewish and Buddhists faiths sometimes use amulets in the form of written text and names.
• Christians, Muslims and Hindus often use religious books as amulets in times of trouble.
• Afro-Caribbean tribes use many types of amulet.
• Garlic has been used as an amulet to ward off vampires.
• Many cultures use perfumes and essences, some use candles and even tattoos on their skin.

In modern times amulets are often used as a fashion accessory without any real supernatural intentions.