Evil

1. Ancient Egypt

– Amulets and talismans: Often used amulets with the image of the eye of Horus (Wadget) – a symbol of protection, health and recovery. It was believed that this amulet drives away evil spirits and brings good luck.

– Rituals and spells: Priests cast special spells from the Book of the Dead and other sacred texts to protect the souls of the dead and the living from evil forces.

– Symbolism: Ankh-a symbol of life and protection, often worn as an amulet.

2. Ancient Mesopotamia

– Amulets: Figures of guardian demons were used, such as the Lamassu-winged creatures with a human head that protected the entrances to houses and temples.

– Spells: Priests cast spells and used sacred texts to exorcise evil spirits.

– Use of herbs and oils: Aromatic herbs and oils were used to clean the space and protect it.

3. Ancient Greece

– The Eye of Fatima (or “evil eye”): Although it is a symbol of later cultures, similar amulets were used in Greece to protect against the evil eye and envy.

– Purification rituals: Ablutions and sacrifices to the gods were used to protect against evil influences.

– Hecate: The goddess of magic and witchcraft, who was sought for protection and help in the fight against the dark forces.

4. Ancient Rome

– Figures and amulets: Used fasci-bundles of branches, symbolizing power and protection. Amulets depicting the goddess Vesta, the patroness of the home, were also popular.

– Spells and prayers: Priests and magi recited special formulas to protect against evil spirits and diseases.

5. Ancient India

– Mantras: Sacred sound formulas, the repetition of which was considered a powerful defense against evil forces and negativity. For example, the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”.

– Talismans and yantras: Geometric designs and symbols that were worn or placed in the house for protection.

– Ayurveda: Using herbs and oils to purify the body and space.

6. Ancient China

– Talismans and symbols: Images of dragons and phoenixes that symbolized strength and protection.

– Feng Shui: The practice of harmonizing space to create protection from negative energies.

– Spells and amulets: Use rings, pendants with hieroglyphs of happiness and protection.

7. Ancient Slavs

– Amulets: Made of wood, metal or cloth – for example, crosses, solar signs (kolovrat) to protect against evil spirits.

– Spells and incantations: Used to ward off evil spirits and diseases.

– Fire and Water Purification: Rituals using fire and water to purify space and people.

Common features of ancient defensive practices:

– Use of symbols and amulets that concentrate defensive energy.

– Performing rituals and spells to banish or repel evil.

– Use of natural remedies (herbs, oils, fire, water) for cleansing and protection.

– Belief in the power of sacred sounds (mantras, prayers) as a powerful security tool.