CURSE TABLETS & BINDING SPELLS In Ancient World
CURSE TABLETS & BINDING SPELLS In Ancient World
I. Definitions: Defixiones or katadesmoi (Greek) -"Inscribed pieces of lead, usually in form of thin tin sheets, intended to bring supernatural power to bear against persons and animals."
A. Other materials: gemstones, pottery, wax, papyrus, stone, etc.
B. General description:
l. Origins: Earliest known: Egypt, Mid. Kingdom (use of was doll in grave to invoke Osiris’ punishment of a personal enemy). In use into Middle Ages.
2. Magic techniques used for construction, formulae, symbols
a. Magos hired to produce specific spell/curse. Many "mass produced" for future uses. Could be "homemade" w/“recipe” from magic text.
b. languages/symbols- often mix of Egyptian, Greek
c. symbols included vowel-series, geometric shapes, "wings."
voces mysticae = unintelligible words (often abbreviated in recipe)
d. many lead/tin boxes w/messages inside, nailed shut.
3. Locations- common- graves, under floors, doorway of "target", well,
4. Popularity: widespread: all classes, all Mediterranean areas,
throughout Roman empire-Britain to Mesopotamia. (1500+ to date)
II. How used: "inscribed messages" to invoke supernatural aid (god[s] &/or daimons to do will of client - to act upon a "target." (e.g., in Greece, esp. Hermes or Persephone, in Egypt, esp Seth, Thoth).
A. General "Types"
1. Competition in Theater & Circus (horse/chariot races)
2. Sex, Love, Marriage
3. Legal & Political Disputes
4. Business
5. Revenge, Justice (Pleas for)
6. Personal life ( recover lost items, slaves, trips, etc.)
B. Antidotes & Counterspells:
1. protective amulets (= periapta & periammata = "things tied around")
2. Jews & Christians felt religion was adequate antidote.
3. inscribed protective bowls, inscribed metal (silver, gold) bracelet, token
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