Superstition
f o u r  o b j e c t s

Famous and revered rabbis in all ages have spoken against and forbidden the use of devices that magically affect the course of life. This has not stopped the hopes and wishes of those who feel the need for extra insurance for good luck. These devices usually take the form of amulets that may be inscribed in Hebrew or Aramaic or even with letters that look like Hebrew but, being the work of uneducated craftsmen, are at best crude symbols. Amulets in modern times are more commonly found in North African communities. Polish and Russian artifacts are usually from a century or more past. These amulets were made to be hung over birthing beds, pinned to the garments of small children, and hung on the walls of home and synagogue. Before dismissing the use of devices of superstition as archaic, it should be noted that necklaces displaying the sign of the hamsa and other good luck symbols can be acquired in most modern jewelry stores.