Protective amulets are objects believed to possess magical powers that can bring protection and good fortune to those who possess them. Found in different cultures and civilizations throughout history, these amulets have a wide range of designs and materials used. The range of protective amulets is vast and diverse. One common type is the evil eye amulet, believed to ward off the negative effects of the evil eye, which is thought to cause harm and misfortune. These amulets often feature an eye symbol or a blue bead, and they are popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. Another type of protective amulet is the Hamsa, also known as the Hand of Fatima or Hand of Miriam.
Even the W.I.T.C.H. (Women’s International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell) movement of the late 1960’s was aimed to breakdown walls and structures imposed by the patriarchy through magic. W.I.T.C.H. is still around today, standing strong and fighting against those who tear women and the LGBTQ community down.
Covens, which serve as a sacred bond between people who share the same views and allow for witches to meet in numbers and enable their force, seem to spark extra fear. But for witches, brujas, brujos, and warlocks who have dedicated their whole lives to understanding themselves through their spirituality and magic, it s not just a trend, but a way of life.
Another type of protective amulet is the Hamsa, also known as the Hand of Fatima or Hand of Miriam. This amulet is shaped like an open hand with an eye in the center, symbolizing protection against the evil eye and providing blessings, strength, and good fortune. The Hamsa is widely used in Jewish and Islamic traditions.
How to Do Magic and Other Questions You Might Have About Being a Witch
Sabrina Spellman said “witches are having a moment,” on an episode of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. With shows like that one, and the increasing presence of tarot, sage, and other forms of magic in both pop culture and mainstream life, it seems like Sabrina may be right. But for witches, brujas, brujos, and warlocks who have dedicated their whole lives to understanding themselves through their spirituality and magic, it’s not just a trend, but a way of life.
As usual, the things we see on television aren’t quite realistic. So, to get a more realistic sense of what magic is, how it’s used, and why people are so afraid of it, let’s talk to the experts — witches themselves.
What is magic?
Bri Luna, creative director and owner of The Hoodwitch, defines it simply: “Magic is creating change by connecting with the energies of nature at will.”
In modern times, witches are a symbol of power—those who can see beyond the superficialities of the universe and embrace the four elements of the world (earth, air, fire, and water) to help make declarations surrounding desires and passions, as well as liberation from the restraints of society.
Contrary to pop culture stigmas,like the Wicked Witch of the West, Hocus Pocus, and The Blair Witch Project, witchcraft and magic bring people together, as well as closer to nature and spirituality. Magic practitioner and astrologer Annabel Gat believes magic is, “the chemistry between me and my favorite people, it’s nature, it’s the gift of life. Magic is a spark,” she said. "When you can affect the world around you with your will, you can make amazing things happen. I love seeing magic used in communities as a way to bring people together. The best application of magic is always toward peace of mind and peace between people.”
Why is it so taboo?
Beyond the obvious fear of the unknown making magic marginalized, magic is extra badass because the patriarchy frowns upon it. This is perhaps due to xenophobia, religious concern, and weariness of people who challenge society’s core beliefs.
Covens, which serve as a sacred bond between people who share the same views and allow for witches to meet in numbers and enable their force, seem to spark extra fear. Witches join together to fight against the patriarchy, to implement rights for the LGBTQ community, and for feminist beliefs. The fear of witches is hedged in the patriarchal society’s fear of giving political, mystical, healing, and sexual power to those do not fit in the cisgender male status quo.
Even the W.I.T.C.H. (Women’s International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell) movement of the late 1960’s was aimed to breakdown walls and structures imposed by the patriarchy through magic. W.I.T.C.H. is still around today, standing strong and fighting against those who tear women and the LGBTQ community down.
What does magic do?
You can't do just anything with magic. You can certainly tilt the scales in your favor with magic, but the most important thing to consider is that the energy for personal wins has to be already in the ether. Meaning, if you light a candle for a promotion at work, the spirits will tell you through candle magic what obstacles stand in your way and how to change your current path for success.
Color magic conjurer and tarot reader, Sarah Potter says, “Magic requires work in every realm. You cannot just light a candle and wish for things and then get them. That would be so nice, though! Anything worthwhile requires major effort and dedication so you must get very clear with your intentions and then put in the work on the astral plane as well as in the physical realm.” Magic is sacred and acts as a double edged sword. Therefore, it’s essential to only manifest your truest intention. Understanding ones deepest yearnings is hard. However, magic allows us to see past the surface and within our subconscious.
Is there only one kind of magic?
No! Magic is a personal relationship and should be used at one’s will. Finding the mix that works best for you is a life-long journey. Luna said she calls on her culture to find her ideal magic. “I infuse elements of both of my cultures, and I find that I’ve really enjoyed utilizing aspects of traditional folk healing from my indigenous Mexican and African-American ancestors, as well as working with practices from others that I feel resonate with me, whom I’ve met and learned from on my path, she said. “I practice energetic clearing rituals (i.e using herbs to cleanse my home or workspace), beauty rituals, which I guess fall into self-care. I love meditation in the sun, or listening to the waves of an ocean. I actually just love being in nature, so taking off my shoes and burying my feet into the soil is very therapeutic for me. Relaxing ritual baths that are infused with aromatic essential oils, with rose or flower petals. I celebrate the new and full moon and share suggested rituals for them on my site. I also love to burn candles.”
So, to the question, am I a witch? I have two answers: One, if you are a creator, from cooking your meals every day to creating babies, to making hilarious memes for the Internet, you’re a witch in my book. Two, do you want to be a witch? Then abracadabra! You are one!
In many cultures, different animals and creatures are also believed to have protective qualities, and their images are used in amulets. For example, the Celtic people used amulets with depictions of animals like dragons and serpents to protect against evil spirits and bring luck and courage. Additionally, gemstones and crystals are often used in protective amulets due to their believed abilities to ward off negative energies and attract positive ones. Popular gemstones include turquoise, believed to protect against evil and promote abundance, and amethyst, known for its calming and protective properties. The range of protective amulets extends to religious symbols as well. Crosses, Stars of David, and other religious symbols are often worn as amulets to provide spiritual protection and guidance. These symbols are significant to different faiths and are believed to offer divine protection and blessings. Overall, the range of protective amulets is vast and varied, reflecting the cultural and spiritual beliefs of different societies throughout history. Whether in the form of evil eye amulets, animal depictions, gemstones, or religious symbols, these amulets serve as a tangible reminder of protection and good fortune and are valued by many who seek their benefits..
Reviews for "The Colorful World of Protective Amulets: Gemstones and Meanings"
1. John - 1 star - I was highly disappointed with the range of protective amulets. The product description made them seem like they would provide strong protection, but I found them to be flimsy and ineffective. The materials used felt cheap and not worth the price. I would not recommend these amulets to anyone looking for reliable protection.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - I had high hopes for the range of protective amulets, but unfortunately, they did not meet my expectations. While the designs were beautiful and unique, the actual protective properties were lacking. I did not feel any sense of reassurance or protection while wearing them. Additionally, the amulets started to show signs of wear after just a few weeks of use. Overall, I was quite disappointed in these amulets and would not purchase them again.
3. Robert - 1 star - The range of protective amulets were a complete waste of money for me. Despite the claims of providing strong protection, I didn't notice any difference in my overall well-being or sense of security. The designs were also not appealing to me, which made wearing them even more disappointing. I regret purchasing these amulets and would advise others to look for alternative options.