The Evil Eye: The True History and Meaning Behind It

The evil eye is a popular symbol that almost everyone in the spiritual realm knows. It has also been mainstream for years, being used on clothes, jewelry, bags, and more. Many people believe that the evil eye is used as a symbol that protects you from negative energy and curses. It is most commonly worn on the body somewhere to receive protective energy. But the true history and meaning of the evil eye is much more complex and different then what the mainstream media has said.

History of the Evil Eye

The evil eye is held as a belief in many cultures, so its history is very complex. For many, the evil eye refers to a 5,000 year old curse that originally comes from the belief that a malicious and envious glare can cause physical, emotional, or spiritual harm. The earliest evidence of the evil eye is from ancient Mesopotamian texts from 3,000 BCE. These texts showed chants that protect against harmful gazes. Egyptians during this time would use the Eye of Horus (a symbol that represents protection, healing, and restoration) to deflect any evil or harm.

In ancient Greece and Rome, philosophers like Plato, Plutarch, and Heliodorus studied the evil eye. Their theory was that this eye emitted invisible rays that projected harmful energy that was made from jealousy or malicious intent.

The blue and white evil eye bead that is commonly known today is actually called a nazar or mati. This bead was developed by early glassmakers in the Mediterranean and was popularized by the Romans, Ottomans, and Phoenicians.

Many cultures have believed this superstition in various ways for many centuries. Followers of Islam recite blessings to prevent any harm from the evil eye. In South Asia, mothers would apply kohl to their children's faces to protect them from envious gazes.

Meaning of the Evil Eye

The meaning of the evil eye has evolved over the years. Historically, it refers to the belief in the curse of the malicious glare. The blue and white eye symbol commonly called a nazar is what protects someone from the curse and is not referred to as the evil eye. But in present times, mainstream society now calls the blue and white symbol the evil eye, and it is worn to guard someone from negative energy and curses. Lots of people believe that wearing this symbol will bring them good luck and help them stay positive in difficult or stressful times.

The history of the evil eye shows that cultural symbols and meanings are often slightly changed as the centuries go on. Lots of ancient symbols have a historical backstory that differs from its present meaning. It is important to do your own research when wanting to use different spiritual symbols and practices. What may be the common and accepted meaning in present times may not reflect the true history and meaning of a symbol or practice.