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Definition of Talisman & Good Luck Charms

Definition of Talisman & Good Luck Charms thumbnail
A coin may be carried as a good luck charm.

People have used talismans and good luck charms throughout the ages. The objects can be as simple as a rock or feather, but the real magic may be in the mind of the believer.

  1. Definition

    • According to Merriam-Webster.com, a talisman is an "object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune." The second definition describes a talisman as "something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects." A good luck charm is any object believed to bring luck.

    Types

    • There are many good luck charms including the four-leaf clover, horseshoe, rabbit's foot, feathers, stones and coins. Gemstones such as quartz, agate, jade and turquoise are also often worn or carried for good luck. Natural objects such as stones or pebbles are thought to be lucky because they carry earth energy.

    Cultures

    • Certain shapes and symbols are also considered lucky in various cultures. The ancient Celts believed in the good luck of a four-leaf clover (different from the Irish shamrock clover.) The scarab beetle was a symbol of good fortune and considered sacred by the ancient Egyptians.

    Purpose

    • People use charms and talismans for many reasons besides good luck. Charms are often carried to provide protection, to encourage love or success or to help bring about a specific change or desire.

    Religion

    • An object may be considered lucky or protective due to the cultural and religious influences passed down through generations. In Christianity, the cross is used as a symbol of protection against evil. Buddhists may wear or carry a representation of Buddha whereas the Star of David is used in Jewish tradition.

    Considerations

    • Charms and talismans can be made, purchased or simply found. Various objects act as meaningful symbols for different individuals. The objects might be perceived as having inherent energies that can help to focus the mind of the possessor on the desired outcome.

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References

  • Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin Dooley

Comments

  • flameofire Nov 12, 2009
    Fantastic article!

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