The Evil Greek Eye: History, Meaning, and Cultural Significance
The Evil Eye, or “Mati” as it is known in Greece, is a powerful symbol that has been a part of Greek culture and folklore for thousands of years. This belief is not limited to Greece alone; variations of the Evil Eye exist across many cultures, including in Turkey, Italy, the Middle East, and even parts of Latin America. However, in Greece, the Evil Eye holds a particularly prominent place in everyday life, affecting how people interpret misfortune, protect themselves from harm, and navigate social interactions.
The Evil Eye refers to the belief that someone can harm you, either intentionally or unintentionally, through a malevolent glare or envious thoughts. It is thought that when a person looks at you with envy, jealousy, or ill intentions, they can curse you with the Evil Eye, bringing about misfortune, illness, or even death. This belief is deeply rooted in human psychology, as it reflects the universal fear of envy and the potential power of negative energy directed at someone.
In ancient times, the Evil Eye was taken very seriously. The concept is mentioned in texts from ancient Greece, including the works of classical writers such as Plutarch, who described the destructive effects of an envious gaze. Even in modern Greece, the belief in the Evil Eye has remained prevalent, passed down through generations. It continues to shape the way people perceive certain types of interactions, especially when success, beauty, or happiness is involved. If someone is too openly praised without proper protection, it is believed that they may attract the attention of the Evil Eye.
To protect themselves from the harmful effects of the Evil Eye, Greeks have developed various forms of apotropaic (protective) symbols, rituals, and objects. The most famous of these is the blue eye charm, known simply as "Mati" or "Eye." This charm, usually made of glass, is worn as jewelry or displayed in homes, cars, and even businesses to ward off the curse. The blue color of the charm is thought to be especially potent in warding off evil, as blue is considered a protective color that reflects negative energy back to its source.
These eye-shaped amulets are often seen in different sizes, from tiny beads worn on a bracelet to large pendants hanging in doorways. You’ll find the blue eye incorporated into all sorts of objects, from keychains to souvenirs, and they make popular gifts, as people give them to friends and family to help protect against the Evil Eye. Wearing or carrying the Evil Eye charm is a common practice in Greek culture, particularly for newborns, who are thought to be especially vulnerable to the curse.
In addition to the Evil Eye charm, there are traditional rituals to dispel the effects of the curse if someone believes they have been afflicted. The most well-known practice is called "Xematiasma," a ritual performed to remove the Evil Eye. This is usually done by someone who has learned the prayer or incantation to remove the curse, often from a family member. The ritual is secretive and is passed down through generations, mostly by grandmothers or older relatives. It involves reciting a special prayer while making the sign of the cross and, in some cases, yawning or feeling a sudden release of tension as the curse is supposedly lifted.
Interestingly, the Evil Eye is believed to be more potent when directed by certain individuals. People with light-colored eyes are traditionally thought to be more likely to cause the curse, whether intentionally or not. This belief likely stems from the rarity of blue or green eyes in Mediterranean populations, making them seem more mysterious or even suspicious. As a result, if someone with light eyes compliments another person, Greeks will often say a blessing or give thanks to protect against any unintentional harm that could result from envy.
Compliments are generally handled with care in Greek culture, especially when it comes to children, beauty, or success. When someone praises a child, for example, it is common for parents to respond with "Na ‘nai kala" (meaning "May they be well") or "Ftou ftou" (a spitting sound made to ward off evil). These responses are meant to offer protection against any accidental casting of the Evil Eye that might arise from the compliment.
The Evil Eye is not limited to interpersonal relationships; it can also affect material success. In business, for example, if someone’s prosperity grows quickly or they acquire something valuable, there is often a concern about attracting the Evil Eye. Many business owners in Greece will keep an Evil Eye charm in their shops to protect against envious glances that could harm their success. Similarly, new homes, cars, and other possessions are often "blessed" with protective charms or rituals to keep away the negative effects of jealousy.
Beyond its role in personal and social life, the Evil Eye has also found its way into modern Greek fashion and art. The Mati symbol has been incorporated into jewelry, clothing, and home decor, blending its traditional protective function with contemporary aesthetics. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing necklaces or bracelets featuring the Evil Eye as a trendy accessory, even though the underlying belief remains the same.
Despite its ancient roots, the belief in the Evil Eye remains a potent force in Greece. It bridges the gap between superstition, religion, and everyday life, reflecting deep-seated cultural attitudes towards envy, success, and protection from harm. Whether through protective amulets, ritual prayers, or simple verbal blessings, Greeks continue to navigate the potential threat of the Evil Eye with a mix of reverence and practicality.
In the broader context, the Evil Eye is part of a larger tradition of apotropaic practices that can be found in cultures around the world. From the Nazar amulets of Turkey to the Hamsa hands in the Middle East, the belief that a glance can harm or that negative energy must be repelled has deep psychological and cultural significance. The Greek interpretation of the Evil Eye is just one version of this ancient concept, but it has endured over millennia and remains an integral part of modern Greek life.
Whether you’re a believer or not, the ubiquity of the Evil Eye in Greece is undeniable. From small villages to bustling cities, the blue eye symbol is everywhere, reminding locals and visitors alike of the power of envy and the need for protection against unseen forces. It serves as a cultural touchstone, connecting the present to the past and offering a fascinating glimpse into the enduring legacy of ancient beliefs in modern society. Visiting Greece, it’s almost impossible not to encounter the Evil Eye in some form, whether as a piece of jewelry, a decoration in a shop, or part of a conversation. And even if you don’t believe in its power, the Mati remains a beautiful and iconic symbol of Greek culture, steeped in history and meaning.
