Found a 1,500-year-old talisman against 'evil eye'

The ancient talisman is engraved with words and many drawings to protect women and children from a female demon in Greek mythology.

The Israeli Ministry of Antiquities (IAA) is researching an ancient amulet with inscriptions and drawings on both sides, Sun reported on May 31. The talisman has existed since the 5th or 6th century, known as Solomon's Seal . A local resident discovered it in the village of Arbel, near the Sea of ​​Galilee, northern Israel, about 40 years ago. The family just submitted it to the IAA for further study.

Evil eye engraved on one side of an ancient talisman. (Photo: Dafna Gazit/IAA).

Scientists compared the talisman with other ancient seals and pendants in Galilee and Lebanon and found many similarities. They believe that ancient people wore them to receive sacred protection.

The newly discovered talisman was most likely worn around the neck as a pendant. The front is engraved with the image of a person riding a horse, his head radiating light. Experts believe that this person is holding a javelin to throw at Gello - a female demon in Greek mythology, causing miscarriage, infertility and death as an infant. This female demon is also associated with the evil eye. The Greek inscription above the rider reads "god who conquers evil" , while at the foot of the horse is the name of the Jewish god Yahweh.

The other side of the talisman is engraved with an eye pierced by arrows and a sharp object. The eye is also threatened by two lions, a snake, a scorpion and a bird below. Above these drawings is the Greek inscription "god".

"The eye on the back of the talisman can be identified as the evil eye. It is being attacked and overpowered by many 'forces'. Therefore, it is likely that the talisman was used to fight the evil eye , the subject said. The guards could be women and children ," said Dr. Eitan Klein, deputy director of the Antiquities Theft Prevention Unit of the IAA.