An amulet is an object, usually worn, that is considered to have powers that will protect the person. In many cases, it is the same as a talisman; but a talisman may be carried, where an amulet is usually worn. Both are considered to be protection against some form of evil and are common to numerous cultures ancient and present. Faith in the protective object was often greater for many in past times, however, when more folkloric beliefs were accepted.
The modern person wearing an amulet, such as a Catholic wearing a cross, may not believe the object protects him or her from evil. He or she generally displays the cross as a symbol of belief and reminder of Christ. There is great variance, however, and some people, especially those who follow Wiccan or astrological practices, may take the wearing of a protective charm quite seriously.
In Ancient Egypt, the amulet might depict gods, hieroglyphics, or certain revered animals, carved out of precious stones. These were generally worn during life, and kept on after death for protection in the afterlife.
Later, early Scandinavians used a rune in the shape of Thor’s hammer to ward off evil from witchcraft. The early Celts might have worn a four-leafed shamrock, or metal or stone carvings of the wheel or a boat. The three-leafed shamrock is actually Christian in origin and signifies the holy trinity.
Each astrological sign has a stone that is significant, and many believe that wearing the appropriate stone gives one luck or wards off danger. The stone may be worn as necklace or ring. Amulet stones differ depending on which horoscope a person is basing his beliefs upon. For example, Chinese astrology differs significantly from Greek astrological signs and beliefs.
The object does not necessarily have to be stone or metal. Belief in vampire lore in Hungary often had villagers wearing garlic as a necklace because it was thought to repel the creatures. Further, in many medieval countries, people wore bags with herbs that were thought to ward off sickness or to cure illnesses.
In modern Japan, many wear an Omamori amulet. This is a small bag made of silk that has prayers written in paper on the inside. Some believe the Omamori protects the wearer only so long as he or she does not open the bag. It may have different prayers depending upon the wearer’s needs. Pregnant women might wear a special one, as might scholars or people who travel frequently.
Specificity of the amulet still exists in present day. For example, many police officers wear a St. Christopher’s medal, as he is the patron saint of people who help. Others may wear a medal showing St. Michael, the patron saint of police officers. Further, some police officers may wear a St. Jude medal, since he is the patron saint of hopeless causes.
Though there is little scientific evidence that an amulet actually protects the wearer from danger, many still find comfort or have great faith in the protective ability of such objects. Others wear them without really thinking of them as protective, and instead, they have simply become part of the “uniform” of a particular job. Some non-believers still believe in hedging their bets, particularly when it comes to wearing patron saints. While they aren’t sure the amulet will work, there seems no harm in a little divine protection.
