An amulet is an object employed to protect the wearer, from harmful influences or to attract good fortune, money and the like. Scientific knowledge would suggest that amulets are superstitious nonsense with no basis in fact. However, psychology may indicate that amulets do indeed function, though not quite by 'magic'. Psychologists have long established that that attitude and belief can affect a person. Salesmen chant mantras of success, and believe in their ability. This belief makes them confident and more effective at selling. Former cancer patients who believe they are free from the disease following operations are significantly less likely to redevelop the disease compared to those who believe the disease may come back. There is then a scientific basis for the functionality of amulets. If the wearer of an amulet believes in the power of the amulet, this belief will affect their behaviour, albeit unconsciously, and in turn will improve the immune system to protect against illness, or increase confidence to help attract a mate, or increase confidence and make perception
more positive to allow the wearer to realise 'good luck'. Classic amulets include the Utchat, or 'Eye of Horus'; Ankh; Scarab; The Tau; The Tet; Swastika; Crescent and Hand. Research Amulet
The Utchat was an amulet representing the eye of Horus and used in ancient Egypt. According to the book of the dead, the amulet should be made of lapis-lazuli or mak stone. However, these amulets have been found made of almost every conceivable material. Traditionally there were two variations, one facing right and the other left, together representing the two eyes of Horus or Ra and Osiris. The Utchat was generally worn around the neck with the intention of deriving strength, vigour, protection, safety and good health from it. Research Utchat
The Probert Encyclopaedia was designed, edited and programed by
Matt and Leela Probert
Abbreviations
Research Amulet
