The bronze pendant in question the form of a fine shield was discovered south-­western Crimea, vicinity mediaeval Cherson. Its front side depicts holy rider piercing demon with cross; first words Psalm 90 (according to Orthodox Bible numeration) are engraved on back. image horse-­rider spear daemon laying below legs his horse is one most popular apotropaic scenes. It appeared amulets Late Roman...

Whereas shrines in Africa, and to a lesser extent their links with medicine and healing, have been extensively studied by historians and anthropologists, they have been largely neglected by archaeologists. Focus has been placed upon palaeopathology when medicine is considered in archaeological contexts. Difficulties certainly exist in defining medicine shrines, substances and practices archaeol...

This article describes the principles of sihr (sorcery) from an Islamic perspective, starting with discussion how to become a sorcerer and perform sorcery help satanic djinns amulets. Then, ruqya, practices for countering aid Qur’an Sunna, are exemplified in detail. Next, analyzes these can be interpreted by means ritual studies models identifies four components that essential successful cure. ...

Throughout Antiquity magical amulets written on papyri, lead and silver were used for apotropaic reasons. While papyri often can be unrolled and deciphered, metal scrolls, usually very thin and tightly rolled up, cannot easily be unrolled without damaging the metal. This leaves us with unreadable results due to the damage done or with the decision not to unroll the scroll. The texts vary greatl...