The belief in “nazar” (or “evil eye”) is a cultural belief that is found in many parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Here are a few key facts about this belief:
- The belief in nazar is that certain individuals possess a powerful gaze that can cause harm or misfortune to those on whom it falls, often associated with jealousy and envy.
- The nazar is often directed at children, animals, or anything that is considered particularly innocent or vulnerable.
- To protect against the nazar, people often wear an amulet called a “nazar boncuğu” which is typically in the shape of an eye, the blue color of the amulet is believed to reflect the harmful gaze back to the giver.
- The belief in nazar is not limited to any specific religion, it’s considered more of a cultural belief that is passed down through generations.
- The belief in nazar is popular in the Mediterranean countries, and particularly in Greece, Turkey, and Italy.
- The belief in nazar is not considered to be based on scientific evidence, and is often considered to be a superstition or a cultural belief.
- The belief in nazar can also be found in other cultures and traditions, it’s often associated with the idea that certain people have the power to cast a curse or to bring bad luck through their gaze.
- Some people also believe that certain actions, such as spitting or making a fist, can ward off the effects of an evil gaze.
- The belief in nazar is not limited to specific demographic, it can be found across different social classes, ethnic groups and cultures.
