Amulets, Talismans, And Magical Jewelry: A Way To The Unseen, Everpresent, Almighty God
Title: Amulets, Talismans, And Magical Jewelry: A Way To The Unseen, Everpresent, Almighty God
Author: Barbara Black Koltuv
Publisher: Nicolas-Hays (August 20, 2005)
Paperback: 147 pages
ISBN: 0-89254-117-2
List Price: $24.95
Editorial Summary
The Second Commandment of the Old Testament forbids the making of idols to represent God. However, since human beings have always needed a direct and personal connection to the divine, a way is provided in Exodus, when God says, Make a sanctuary for me and I will come to dwell among you. God goes on to give instructions for building the ark of the covenant-the first tribal amulet, not yet personal but still representing the presence of God. From there, amulets, talismans, and magical jewelry evolved to provide a personal connection to God.
The book is lavishly illustrated, in full color throughout, with many examples from the author's own collection. It's all here: glass beads for protection against the evil eye; the mezuzah found on door frames; the hamsa, or upraised hand; engraved pendants and tiny boxes containing special prayers; Aaron's breastplate; the prayer shawl and teffilin; henna hand and foot painting; and amulets from the Sepher Raziel that protect newborn infants from evil forces.
As visually fascinating as these objects are, how they came into use is even more so. This is where Dr. Koltuv's love of Hebrew scripture comes into play, as she tracks the development of the use of talismans and amulets in ancient texts. Koltuv revives an awareness of how many of the objects we wear and carry with us without a second thought are actually bridges between heaven and earth. We also come to realize just how much spirit and magic is infused in our everyday lives.