An evil eye amulet (bead or disc), usually of a blue-coloured eye with a dark blue circle around it. Often referred to as ‘evil eye’, this ocular amulet is a charm meant to ward off evil eyes. It is a commonly used evil eye protection tool, to protect homes and people from negative energies and misfortune.
Evil eye: Meaning
An evil eye is a charm that is believed to protect from negative energies and bad luck.
See also: How to remove negative energy from home
An evil eye is a talisman or amulet, designed in the shape of an eye in blue colour, signifying protection.
An evil eye charm has a bright blue iris, sometimes a black iris, bordered by circles of white and dark blue colours.
People across the world hang the evil eye talisman in their homes for protection and blessings.
See also: Water fountain for home Vastu: Tips to bring positive energy
What does the evil eye symbolise?
Evil eye refers to a curse given to someone through a malicious glare, which is believed to bring loss or misfortune to whoever receives the look. However, many people believe that it’s more than a simple superstition. If someone wishes you ill, an evil eye charm serves as protection against their ill intention. It symbolises safety and good luck and serves as a defence against negative thoughts.
What is the origin of evil eye?
For centuries, people believed in the power of talismans or amulets to protect them from the unknown. Many civilisations across the world believe that a person can cause harm to others through his thoughts. The evil eye is believed to be a malicious glance that can bring bad luck to anyone receiving it.
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The evil eye symbol or ‘nazar amulet’ is a good luck charm, first documented by the Mesopotamians about 5,000 years ago. Interestingly, the evil eye symbol is also found in Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu cultures. It is also associated with Greek, ancient Egypt and even Turkish civilizations. Both, Feng Shui and Vastu practitioners, suggest using an evil eye amulet as a protective shield against negative energies.
See also: 10 Feng Shui items to attract good luck and prosperity
Which evil eye is good for home?
The blue evil eye is the most popular and widely recognized symbol of protection, often chosen specifically for its powerful protective qualities. Known for warding off negative energy and safeguarding spaces from jealousy and harmful intentions, the blue evil eye charm is believed to be a shield for the home. Its striking blue color symbolizes calmness, peace, and spiritual protection, making it an ideal charm to place around the home, particularly at entry points.
Why Blue?
The color blue in many cultures represents depth, wisdom, and tranquility, akin to the vastness of the sky and the ocean. This connection to nature imbues the blue evil eye with a serene yet potent energy that not only guards the home but also invites peace and balance. It is also believed to reflect back any ill intentions, deflecting them and keeping the home free of unwanted energies. This quality makes the blue evil eye perfect for creating a harmonious household environment while blocking out negative influences.
What is the earliest known evidence of the evil eye?
Belief in the evil eye dates back to at least the 6th century B.C.,when it appeared in various Greek Classical antiquities like drinking vessels. It is referenced by many classical authors like Plato, Hesiod, and Plutarch, all of whom described the function of the evil eye charm as a form of protection.
Why should we believe in evil eye superstition?
In addition to holding immense significance and popularity in various cultures around the globe, many authors and folklorists have given scientific explanations of the function of evil eye charms. According to the scientific explanation given by Plutarch, the eyes were the chief source of the deadly and malicious rays that spring up from the inner recesses of an individual who possesses the evil eye. It usually affects the unaware and can have disastrous consequences.
Different colours of evil eye charms and their meaning
An evil eye charm is available in various sizes, made up of ceramic, clay, glass, wood, acrylic, metal, etc. The most popular ones are the Turkish evil eye beads, round and made up of glass with blue and white concentric circles, resembling a wide-open eye.
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Various kinds of evil eye beads in different colors are available, however the most accepted evil eye bead colour is blue.
Let us look at the significance behind evil eyes’ colours.
- The dark blue evil eye signifies good karma, positive energy such as commitment, motivation, and protection against the evil eye.
- The light blue evil eye is linked to sky, which signifies wide horizons and protection against the evil eye.
- Yellow or golden evil eyes, resembling the sun, signify energy, strength and protection against diseases.
- An orange evil eye is associated with happiness, creativity and fulfillment of dreams.
- A pink evil eye is associated with relaxation and leads to friendships and love.
- A green evil eye symbolises a balanced life full of enjoyment, new ideas and happiness.
- A brown evil eye is for protection against natural forces. It comforts you with stability and growth.
- A purple evil eye is associated with spirituality. It removes obstacles and creates a balance in life.
- A white evil eye symbolises goodness, wealth, purity, opportunities and new beginnings.
- A red evil eye provides energy, strength and courage, to face the problems of life.
- A grey evil eye protects against sadness.
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- A black evil eye is the least popular one; it is associated with power and gives protection against bad luck and adversity.
Evil eye: Benefits as per Vastu and Feng Shui
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Source: Pinterest
The evil eye’s connotation comes from the view that people who are successful, attract bad glance from those around them. According to Vastu Shastra, the energy in a house has a profound effect on its occupants. So, there should be positive atmosphere in a house. An evil eye charm at home brings good luck and protects you from ill that can otherwise harm you, thereby neutralising negative energy and converting it into positive vibes.
Also check out these Vastu tips for wealth and happiness
According to Feng Shui, the Chinese evil eye charm is like the Bagua mirror. It is used to protect against negative energy and prevent any ‘Sha Qi’ (negative energy) that may be present outside the home.
Where to place evil eye in home for protection?
Using the evil eye at the home entrance
The entrance of a home is one of the most important spaces to protect, as it serves as a gateway that welcomes guests and shields the household from negative energies. Placing an evil eye symbol at the entrance is a centuries-old tradition believed to guard the home from harm, envy, and ill intentions. This placement ensures that any negativity from the outside is halted before entering the home, keeping the indoor environment safe and peaceful.
Why the home entrance needs protection?
The front door or main entrance is more than just a physical entry point; it’s symbolically the “face” of the home. According to traditional beliefs, it is also a space where energies — positive and negative — tend to concentrate. Those who come to your doorstep bring their energy with them, whether knowingly or not. By placing an evil eye at the entrance, the home is equipped with a protective shield that helps prevent negative forces from crossing the threshold.
How the evil eye protects the entrance?
The evil eye symbol, particularly in its classic blue form, is believed to have the power to “reflect back” negative energy. When placed at the entrance, it absorbs or deflects the envy, hostility, or malice that might accompany a visitor, preventing those energies from entering the home. It’s as if the symbol “sees” any ill intent coming its way and blocks it from passing through, keeping the household safe and fostering a positive environment within.
Choosing the right type and style of evil eye for the entrance
For entrance protection, several styles of evil eye charms are particularly effective and visually appealing:
- Wall-mounted evil eye plaque: A large, prominent evil eye plaque above or beside the door creates an unmistakable presence. It provides a powerful barrier, especially if decorated with additional symbols of protection, like hamsas or horseshoes, which further enhance its effectiveness.
- Hanging evil eye ornament: Hanging an evil eye charm from the doorknob or placing it directly above the door frame is another popular option. This style moves slightly with the wind or when the door opens, symbolizing the active protection at work.
- Wind chimes with evil eye beads: Wind chimes decorated with evil eye beads offer a dual purpose. They create calming sounds that invite peace while their embedded evil eye symbols add an extra layer of protection.
Ideal placement for maximum effect
To maximize the evil eye’s protective influence, it’s important to place it strategically:
- Above the Main Door: Positioning the evil eye above the main door ensures that it “watches over” anyone who enters, acting as a gatekeeper for energies.
- Eye Level Beside the Door: For a more subtle option, the evil eye can be placed at eye level on either side of the door, allowing it to engage directly with guests and passersby.
- On or Near the Doorbell: If a plaque or charm is placed near the doorbell, it serves as a reminder that all who approach are under its watchful gaze, gently warning that negativity will not be welcome inside.
Benefits of placing an evil eye at the entrance
- Welcoming positive vibes: The evil eye protects the entrance while still allowing positive, welcoming energy to enter. It sets the tone for harmony and warmth inside the home.
- Repelling jealousy and malice: Homes today are often open to friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. The evil eye acts as a filter, deflecting any envy or ill will that might unknowingly be brought to your door.
- Creating a visual statement: As a decorative piece, an evil eye at the entrance signals a mindful approach to well-being and protection. It’s both aesthetically pleasing and functional, enhancing the home’s first impression.
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Place the evil eye in the living room
The evil eye can also be placed in a living room. Its direction should be opposite to that of guests. For example, if guests sit in the east, the evil eye should be in the west. You can also hang an evil eye glass on windows. It can also be hung in a bedroom or in children’s bedroom to create a harmonious, pleasant and peaceful ambiance.
Hanging it on a garden tree would attract all favorable energies. Avoid facing it southwards.
You can also keep it at workplace or on the desk to shield yourself from negative energy.
Position the evil eye in the kitchen
In many cultures, the kitchen is considered the heart of the home, symbolizing health, abundance, and nourishment. To protect this area from negativity and ensure the well-being of the family, an evil eye symbol can be hung near the kitchen entrance or over the main countertop. By placing it here, the household is believed to be shielded from harmful energies that could impact health or prosperity.
Use the evil eye in bedrooms
Bedrooms are personal spaces meant for rest, intimacy, and rejuvenation. Hanging an evil eye in the bedroom, particularly near the headboard, on a nightstand, or beside the door, helps create a protective barrier for restful sleep and peace of mind. The evil eye in the bedroom can guard against any negative thoughts or anxieties, fostering a calming and positive environment.
Hang the evil eye in children’s rooms
Children are often more sensitive to the energies around them, so placing an evil eye in a child’s room can help protect them from any negative influences. The evil eye can be hung near the bed, on a wall, or even incorporated into a mobile or wall hanging with other protective symbols. This placement is thought to provide comfort and protection, promoting peaceful sleep and overall well-being.
Place the evil eye in the study or office
For those with a home office or study area, hanging an evil eye symbol can help protect against negative energy that could impact productivity, focus, or creativity. Placing the evil eye near the desk or on the wall in the line of sight helps maintain a positive workspace, shielding against stress, competition, or jealousy from external sources.
Position the evil eye in hallways or staircases
Hallways and staircases often act as conduits, guiding energy through different parts of the home. Hanging an evil eye in these areas can help regulate the flow of energy, ensuring that only positive vibes are carried through the house. A small evil eye charm or wall hanging in a hallway or at the base or top of a staircase supports a balanced and protected environment throughout the household.
Add the evil eye in outdoor spaces
Outdoor spaces such as balconies, patios, or gardens can also benefit from an evil eye for protection. Hanging an evil eye on an exterior wall, near outdoor seating, or on a balcony door can keep negative energies away from areas where the family might relax or entertain guests. Outdoor placement is ideal for those who want to extend protection beyond the home’s interiors.
Vastu principles for evil eye placement
North-facing entrances
- The north direction in Vastu is associated with wealth and prosperity, governed by Lord Kubera.
- Placing an evil eye charm here ensures protection against financial instability and invites positive energy for abundance.
South-facing entrances
- The south direction is often considered prone to attracting negative energies.
- An evil eye placed at a south-facing entrance acts as a strong shield against harmful forces, jealousy, and ill will.
East-facing entrances
The east direction represents health and growth. Hanging an evil eye here helps protect the family’s well-being and fosters harmonious relationships.
West-facing entrances
The west direction in Vastu symbolizes stability and support. An evil eye in this direction can help balance energies and protect against unforeseen challenges.
Inside the home
Placing the evil eye in living rooms opposite to where guests usually sit ensures the charm absorbs any negativity directed at the household.
- For kitchens, the evil eye near the entrance promotes health and abundance.
- In bedrooms, hanging an evil eye near the bed’s headboard fosters peace and prevents nightmares or stress.
Feng shui principles for evil eye placement
Bagua map alignment
In Feng Shui, the evil eye can be aligned with the Bagua map to protect specific life areas:
- Wealth corner (Southeast): Promotes financial stability.
- Career area (North): Shields professional growth and focus.
- Health area (Center): Guards the family’s overall well-being.
Entrance protection
- According to Feng Shui, the entrance is the “mouth of Chi,” where energies flow into the home. Placing the evil eye at the main door deflects any negative “Sha Qi” (harmful energy).
Hanging on windows
- Evil eyes hung on windows reflect negative energies coming from external sources, like envious neighbors or chaotic surroundings.
Placement tips for maximum benefits
- Position the evil eye at eye level so it effectively interacts with energies entering your home.
- Ensure it is prominently visible at entry points, such as above the main door or beside the doorbell.
Combine the evil eye with other protection tools, like wind chimes or Hamsa symbols, to amplify its shielding capabilities.
Evil eye home décor trends
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The ancient evil eye talisman has not only inspired jewelry designers but also interior designers. The evil eye motif can be used on tableware lamps, fabrics frames, etc., to give the home protection. There are various types of evil eye designs available for home furnishings and decorations.
One gets wall hanging with evil eye designs made from glass, porcelain silver, or even macramé. Further, a house can be decorated with wind chimes and sun catchers with evil eye motifs.
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Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
There are lovely coasters, cups, wall clocks, cushions, napkin rings, wall plates carpets, and even candles, torans and wall plates, all designed with evil eye charms.
Some of the wall decorations combine evil eyes with other good luck symbols such as elephant statue, peacock, or butterfly. Try and pick one or two pieces but avoid filling your home with too many evil eye-designed accessories.
Signs and symptoms of the evil eye: How to identify its presence?
While the evil eye is often associated with cultural and superstitious beliefs, many people still believe in its existence and its potential effects on their lives. Identifying the signs and symptoms of the evil eye can help you take necessary precautions and seek appropriate remedies. Here are some common indicators to watch for:
- Sudden and unexplained misfortune: One of the most common signs of the evil eye is experiencing a sudden string of misfortunes or setbacks in various aspects of life. This can include financial difficulties, health issues, relationship problems or a series of unfortunate events occurring without a clear cause.
- Unexplained physical or emotional discomfort: Individuals who have been affected by the evil eye may experience unexplained physical or emotional discomfort. This can manifest as persistent headaches, body aches, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, or a general feeling of unease.
- Unusual changes in behaviour: If you or someone around you suddenly displays uncharacteristic behaviour, such as sudden mood swings, aggression or excessive negativity, it could be an indication of the evil eye’s influence. These changes may occur without any apparent cause or reason.
- Sudden loss of energy or vitality: The evil eye is often believed to drain a person’s energy or vitality. If you find yourself feeling unusually tired, lethargic or lacking motivation despite adequate rest and a healthy lifestyle, it could be a sign of the evil eye’s impact.
- Failing business or career setbacks: Another sign of the evil eye’s presence is experiencing persistent difficulties in your professional life. This can include unexpected job loss, frequent setbacks in business ventures, or a decline in productivity and success without any apparent reason.
- Strained relationships and conflict: The evil eye’s influence can lead to tension and conflict within personal relationships. If you notice a sudden deterioration in your relationships with family, friends, or colleagues, and conflicts arise seemingly out of nowhere, it might be worth considering the presence of the evil eye.
- Feeling observed or unsettled: Some individuals who are affected by the evil eye report feeling constantly observed or uncomfortable in their surroundings. This sensation of being watched or monitored can contribute to a general sense of unease and paranoia.
Evil eye protection: Simple remedies to protect your home from evil eye
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Here are a few beliefs that commonly practiced in Indian tradition, to repel negative energies from home:
Hamsa hand for evil eye protection
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Hamsa is an ancient middle-eastern symbol, regarded as a protective talisman that brings good fortune, health and happiness. The most common representations are Hamsa (Khamsa in Arabic), the symbol of a hand with an eye at center of the palm. Hamsa protects its owner from ‘Ayin Hara’ also known as evil eye. The best option is to place the Hamsa hand on the main entrance as it is believed to repel bad energy from entering the house.
Lemon and chilies
Hanging a lemon and seven chilies together at the main house entrance is said to keep negative energy away.
Auspicious symbols like Om and Swastika
Auspicious symbols like Swastika, Om, Trishul, a dancing peacock, or cow and calf hung on the two main pillars of a house or at the main door, also protect from evil eye and bring good fortune.
A rangoli or toran with fresh flowers, is also believed to ward off evil energies and bring good fortune.
Nazar Battu face mask
‘Nazar Battu’ is a totem, or an object having spiritual significance and when hung at the entrance of a house, it blocks negative energies from entering the house. A ‘Mahakal’ face mask at the entrance prevents any kind of bad energies from entering the home and is very popular.
See also: Vastu tips for keeping shankh or conch shell at home
Incense sticks
The aroma of incense sticks removes negative energies, elevates the mood and spreads peace all around.
Burning sage
Light a bundle of sage and allow the smoke to fill every corner of your house. This practice, known as smudging, is believed to cleanse the space and dispel negative energies.
Black tourmaline
This protective crystal is thought to absorb negative energies and promote a positive atmosphere. Place black tourmaline crystals in different areas of your home to enhance its protective qualities.
Salt Lamps
Salt lamps are not only visually appealing but also renowned for their ability to purify the air and neutralize negative ions. Their warm glow creates a calming atmosphere.
Mirrors
Hang mirrors strategically to reflect and deflect negative energies away from your living space. Placing a mirror facing your entrance is believed to prevent negative energies from entering your home.
Salt
It is believed that sprinkling salt at corners of a room and carpets removes negative energy from the house. Salt crystals are believed to have an ability to absorb negative energy.
Ringing bells and chanting mantras
Ringing bells and chanting mantras like Hanuman Chalisa and Gayatri Mantra, also aid in cleansing negative energies and provides protection and peace.
Common myths or misconceptions about the evil eye
Various myths and misconceptions across different cultures have surrounded the concept of the evil eye. Here are some common misunderstandings:
- Intentional Malevolence: A prevalent myth is that the evil eye is always cast intentionally by individuals harbouring malice. In reality, it is often believed to be unintentional, stemming from envy or admiration, without the person even realizing they are causing harm.
- Exclusive to Certain Cultures: Some assume that belief in the evil eye is confined to specific regions or religions. However, this belief spans numerous cultures worldwide, including parts of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, each with their own interpretations and protective measures.
- Infallible Protection by Amulets: While many cultures use talismans or amulets, such as the Nazar in Turkey or the Hamsa hand, as protection against the evil eye, it’s a misconception to view them as foolproof shields. Their effectiveness is often rooted in personal or communal belief systems rather than empirical evidence.
- Only Negative Effects: Another misconception is that the evil eye solely brings harm. In some traditions, it’s believed that the evil eye can also ward off negativity, acting as a protective symbol against malevolent forces.
- Superstition Lacking Scientific Basis: While the evil eye is often categorised as a superstition, its psychological impact is notable. Belief in the evil eye can influence behaviour and stress levels, demonstrating the profound effect of cultural beliefs on individual well-being.
Evil eye jewellery
There is a variety of jewellery featuring evil eye charms to protect you from malicious looks and negative energies.
Evil eye pendant
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Evil eye bracelet
Scientific perspective on evil eye belief
Belief in the evil eye—where one person’s envy is thought to cause harm to another—has been prevalent across various cultures for centuries. From a scientific perspective, such beliefs can significantly influence an individual’s psychological and physical well-being through mechanisms like psychosomatic stress and the placebo effect.
Moreover, modern behavioral sciences suggest that culturally reinforced beliefs like the evil eye can shape how individuals interpret misfortune, influencing not only personal narratives but also community responses to illness and adversity.
Psychosomatic stress: The conviction that the evil eye has afflicted one can lead to psychosomatic symptoms—physical ailments arising from mental or emotional distress. For instance, individuals may experience headaches, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues without an identifiable medical cause, stemming from anxiety or fear associated with the belief in being cursed. This phenomenon underscores the powerful connection between mind and body, where mental states manifest as physical symptoms.
In clinical psychology, such somatization is not uncommon in culturally specific syndromes, where belief-driven stress leads to tangible physical discomfort.
Placebo and nocebo effects: Using protective talismans or amulets against the evil eye can invoke the placebo effect, where the belief in the object’s protective power brings about absolute psychological comfort and a sense of safety, potentially enhancing overall well-being. Conversely, the nocebo effect occurs when negative expectations lead to adverse outcomes. For example, attributing misfortunes to the evil eye can heighten stress and anxiety, which may, in turn, negatively impact health. Recent studies in neuropsychology show that belief systems—whether protective or harmful—can directly modulate hormonal responses, such as cortisol levels, thus impacting immunity and mood. This illustrates how deeply held beliefs can influence health outcomes, either positively or negatively, based on individual perceptions.
Cultural implications: In some cultures, attributing unexplained illnesses or misfortunes to the evil eye is a coping mechanism, explaining otherwise inexplicable events. However, this attribution can also lead to increased anxiety and stress, particularly if individuals feel vulnerable to others’ envy or malice. For instance, in certain Middle Eastern societies, the belief in the evil eye is linked to various mental health issues, reflecting the complex interplay between cultural beliefs and psychological well-being. This attribution can also influence health-seeking behavior—delaying medical intervention in favor of spiritual remedies, which may affect prognosis in treatable conditions.
Evil eye vs other symbols of protection
Various cultures have developed symbols to ward off negative energies and protect individuals from harm. Here’s a comparison of the evil eye with other prominent protective symbols: These symbols are not just decorative; they carry deep-rooted cultural legitimacy and serve as both spiritual tools and psychological anchors, reinforcing a sense of safety in believers.
| Symbol | Cultural Origin | Description | Purpose |
| Evil Eye | Mediterranean, Middle Eastern | A blue eye symbol believed to reflect malicious gazes | Protects against envy and harm |
| Hamsa Hand | Middle Eastern, North African | An open hand, often with an eye in the center | Wards off the evil eye and brings blessings |
| Horseshoe | Western cultures | A horseshoe hung above doorways | Attracts good luck and repels evil |
| Crosses | Christian communities | A cross symbol, sometimes woven from materials like rushes | Protects against evil spirits and misfortune |
| Phallic Symbols | Ancient Greece, Bhutan | Representations of the phallus | Believed to avert evil and bring fertility |
While each symbol arises from a unique cultural context, they all serve a universal human need—to regain control in the face of uncertainty and perceived malevolence.
Housing.com POV
Incorporating the evil eye into home design reflects a blend of tradition and spirituality, offering a symbolic safeguard against negativity. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the amulet is seen as a powerful tool to create a harmonious living environment by warding off envy, malice, and bad energy. Whether placed at the entrance, in living spaces, or personal rooms, the evil eye charm is thought to filter and balance energies, promoting well-being and peace. This ancient symbol continues to resonate across cultures, reminding us of the importance of protecting our spaces and fostering positivity within our homes.
FAQs
What is the other name for eye evil?
The evil eye is also known as ‘Mati’ in Greece, ‘Mal De Ojo’ in Spanish, ‘Nazar Boncuk’ in Turkey, ‘Ojo Turco’, or ‘Nazar’ or ‘Drishti Dosh’ in India. Hawaiians call the evil eye as 'Make Pilau' (rotten eyes), while Italians call it 'Malocchio' (bad eye). In Portuguese, it is called 'Mau olhado'.
What are the benefits of wearing evil eye jewelry?
The evil eye jewelry has gained a lot of popularity. It is believed that it protects from evil and negative energy and gives peace. Evil eye bracelets, rings and necklaces with evil eye symbols protect one from evil eye glances.
What does it mean if an evil eye breaks?
It is believed that if your evil eye amulet cracks or breaks, it has done its job of protecting you from misfortune or bad luck. It should be replaced with a new evil eye. A broken evil eye should not be placed at home.
