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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