Greek Traditions Community

Evil Eye Traditions?

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cubrinj

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I'm fascinated by the concept of the evil eye and its significance in different cultures. As I'm planning a trip to Greece, I'd love to learn more about the traditions and practices related to the evil eye there.

I've heard that it's a common belief in Greece, and that people wear blue eye charms to protect themselves. What other customs are associated with the evil eye?

If you have any personal experiences or stories related to the evil eye in Greece, I'd love to hear them. Any insights into regional variations or historical background would be greatly appreciated too! I love wearing jewelry with evil eye.
 
Two things we do a lot. I'm not sure if this is from our village or if it's done all over Greece, but:

If you have the evil eye, people pour olive oil into water, bless it, and then drink it.

To find out if someone has the evil eye is to throw a cross into water and if it bubbles then you (or whoever you did it for) has the evil eye.
 
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The evil eye, or "mati," is deeply ingrained in Greek culture, believed to cause harm or bad luck through a malevolent glare. To protect against it, Greeks often wear blue eye charms, as you mentioned, but there are other customs too. For instance, it's common to spit (or fake spit) three times after giving a compliment to ward off the evil eye. You'll also find the "mati" symbol in home decor, like wall hangings or keychains, for added protection.

Regionally, some variations exist, with rituals or prayers specific to certain areas. Historically, the belief dates back to ancient Greece and has persisted through the centuries, blending with Orthodox Christian practices. If you're into jewelry, you'll find beautiful, locally crafted pieces incorporating the evil eye symbol throughout Greece—perfect souvenirs with deep cultural significance!
 
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ellinasgolfer0320 said:
Two things we do a lot. I'm not sure if this is from our village or if it's done all over Greece, but:

If you have the evil eye, people pour olive oil into water, bless it, and then drink it.

To find out if someone has the evil eye is to throw a cross into water and if it bubbles then you (or whoever you did it for) has the evil eye.
Click to expand...
This is so cool! Thank you for sharing this tradition...
 
k_tsoukalas said:
The evil eye, or "mati," is deeply ingrained in Greek culture, believed to cause harm or bad luck through a malevolent glare. To protect against it, Greeks often wear blue eye charms, as you mentioned, but there are other customs too. For instance, it's common to spit (or fake spit) three times after giving a compliment to ward off the evil eye. You'll also find the "mati" symbol in home decor, like wall hangings or keychains, for added protection.

Regionally, some variations exist, with rituals or prayers specific to certain areas. Historically, the belief dates back to ancient Greece and has persisted through the centuries, blending with Orthodox Christian practices. If you're into jewelry, you'll find beautiful, locally crafted pieces incorporating the evil eye symbol throughout Greece—perfect souvenirs with deep cultural significance!
Click to expand...
I have seen these evil eye charms - I will have to get some.
 
The evil eye is real too. My wife is good at getting rid of it believe it or not lol.
 
In Greece, evil eye charms are everywhere, on jewelry, in homes, and even in shops. Some areas have special rituals to protect against it.
Man my wife can't get rid of them I have a lot in my house.
 
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