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02
GET LUCKY Eddie Chak
03
Copyright Š 2014 Eddie Chak All right reserved. Published in United States by Chronicle Books, San Francisco. Library of Congress Cataloging- in-Publication Data. Chak, Eddie. Get Lucky / Eddie Chak. - 1st ed. (Part D) p. cm. Includeds bibliographical references. ISBN 911-2-10002-853-1 (hardcover) 1. Chak, Eddie - Written works. I. Title. NC972.3.C8B719 2014 628.68 - kc12 2014014118 Printed in China 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 First American Edition www.eddiewchak.com
to all the lucky ladies and gentlemen
content 03 Forward Part I 07 Introduction 15
Eastern Culture
21
Western Culture
27
Middle-east Culture Part II
35 Dreamcatcher 51 Horseshoe 65 Maneki-neko 77 Barnstar 91
Red Envelopes
105
Rabbit’s Foot
117
Four-leaf Clover
131
Nazar Boncugu
145 Bibliography 151 Index
forward “What guides our destiny?” This quandary is the cause of much debate and introspection, both in the religious and secular communities. We can set goals and strive to reach them, but there is no guarantee that we will be able to achieve them. Anyone who has suffered a major disappointment can testify to how frustrating life can be at times. The destiny question is made all the more complex by our lack of understanding about the nature of supernatural agents that actually control our lives. People tend to place their trust in explanations that provide the most appealing answer. Unfortunately, the truth about our future destiny is not always so apparent. In that case, we look for things that are able to maintain our luck, Recently, I noticed I always have stuff with me to wish me good luck, which makes me wondering is everybody having similar stuff as well. I believe everybody should have their own things to wish them luck, but do we have actual ideas that what the luck is, and why we have objects to represent it? According to the dictionary, luck is one’s personal fate or lot to desire for chances happening of fortunate or adverse events. In addition, luck can be varied by philosophical, religious, mystical, or emotional context of the one interpreting it, which would make people to consider luck as a form of superstition interpreted differently by different individuals. With different cultures in the world, there are various objects considered to bring luck in different countries. For example, a four-leaf clover is often considered to bestow good luck. However, we do not know where is the belief comes from, what is the story behind it, when did the belief get started it and why people believe in objects that could bring them luck? In this book, it will explain how the factor of different cultural perspectives of luck influences our lives. In the meantime, the book will also include selected lucky items in order to suggest the best options for living a more prosperous life.
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02
part I The Culture of Luck & Superstition
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02
introduction
The definition of Luck
casino next to the Trans-Canada Highway, that was illus-
What is luck? The answer to this question is far-reaching.
trated by the mixed faces of the hundreds of gamblers
The question of luck, which is also known as fortune or
playing slot machines or table games of poker, roulette and
chance, has puzzled the greatest philosophical, theologi-
craps. No matter what some thinkers have said about luck
cal and scientific minds.
being mere randomness, it appears most people, regardless of ethnicity, believe luck is an invisible force, which can
What do we make of the apparent good luck of being born in a
work for or against you.
stable country? Then there is the bad luck of being a passenger on a ship that sinks. What guides the flip of a coin?
The source of luck, both good and bad, has always in-
Not to get too dramatic about it, but, if you can figure out
trigued people. Bob Dylan is good on luck. Think of his
what luck is, it can be basically explained that is the nature
“Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts,” from Blood on the
of the universe.
Tracks (1975), Dylan’s own creative second chance:
The question of good fortune, especially how to get it, cuts
The festival was over, the boys were all plannin’ for a fall, the
across every culture and religion. At the glowing Burnaby
cabaret was quiet except for the drillin’ in the wall. The cur-
07
few had been lifted and the gamblin’ wheel shut down, any-
Another cultural aspect with many differences is people’s
one with any sense had already left town. He was standin’ in
perceptions of good and bad luck. Certain things, like black
the doorway lookin’ like the Jack of Hearts
cats and lucky or unlucky numbers seem to be cross-cultural, but there are plenty of other elements that are unique
Like a crooked pack of cards, Silicon Valley is indeed
to a certain culture or country, for instance, the color red
stacked with guys standing in the doorway looking like the
has special significance in a variety of countries. In Korea
Jack of Hearts. The question is whether the festival is all
it’s believed to be extremely bad luck to write your name
over or just beginning. The question is whether we are all
in red ink – some say you can even die! However, in Israel,
planning for a fall.
if you wear a red string around your wrist it’s supposed to scare evil away. In Taiwan and Poland, wearing red under-
One of the earliest published writers on luck was the 16th
wear is supposed to bring you good luck on gambling and
century Florentine, Niccolo Machiavelli. Machiavelli wrote
exams, respectively. And speaking of exams – if you want
extensively on the cause of good fortune. In his short book,
to pass them in Korea, don’t eat seaweed soup on that day,
The Prince, which is written in 1514, but published posthu-
and if you’re in Vietnam, don’t eat eggs, as they represent
mously in 1532, is an essay of advice to his patron, Loren-
0, which is a score you definitely want to avoid.
zo de Medici, Machiavelli explains that fortune favors the bold thus advising his Prince, not without controversy, to
If you get hungry when you’re traveling, be sure to mind the
always act decisively.
local customs when it comes to food. In China, parents tell their children that unless they eat all the rice in their bowl,
Fortune is a woman and if she is to be submissive it is neces-
their future partner will have a bumpy face, and in Thailand
sary to beat and coerce her.
they say that whoever eats the last bit of food on a place will have a beautiful boyfriend or girlfriend. In Romania, food left on a plate will ensure a woman an ugly husband,
Luck and Superstition in Different Countries
and if you’re sitting at the corner of a table, you will be sin-
In different countries, there are several big differences be-
gle forever! When in Israel, don’t pass a knife to someone
tween cultures which are easy to spot such as language,
else directly or it will cut your friendship apart – put it down
dress, religion, government, currency, but there many little
and let the other person pick it up. And if you’re in Vietnam
ones that we may not go unnoticed.
on New Year’s Day of the lunar calendar, don’t eat duck, squid or dog. Easy!
08
And if you plan on getting married overseas, there are good
In China, don’t wash your hair for the first few days of the
luck/bad luck rules to consider as well. In western cultures
New Year, lest your luck gets washed away as well.
to ensure good luck the bride is supposed to carry four things with her: something old, something new, something
In Vietnam and Thailand, don’t say a baby is cute or
borrowed and something blue. On top of that, it’s very bad
pretty or handsome - doing that will result in the opposite
luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding. And
things happening.
in some countries in Europe – Spain and Bulgaria, for instance – never sweep or clean around a person’s feet or
In Spain, it’s bad luck to open an umbrella indoors, and to
they’ll be single forever!
spill salt on a table. But it’s good luck to rub your lottery ticket on the belly of a pregnant woman – just make sure
Numbers also play a big role in superstition, especially in Asia. It’s well-known that Chinese avoid the number 4 if possible – on street numbers, apartment addresses and phone numbers, because the word “four” in Chinese sounds a lot like the word for “death”. It’s the opposite case for “eight” which sounds like “wealthy”. If your phone number was 888-8888 you’d be very lucky indeed! In Vietnam, you should avoid taking pictures of three people, because the one in the middle might die, and in many western cultures you should avoid the number 13. The ultimate bad luck day, of course, is Friday the 13th. A final random list, just so we cover all the bases: In Korea, there are plenty of superstitions about sleep. If you dream of a dog you’ll have a bad day, but dreaming of a pig means your day will be lucky. And when you go to sleep, don’t have an extra pillow on your bed, otherwise a ghost might decide to lay down beside you!
you know her first! In the Americas, you will have bad luck if you: walk under a ladder, break a mirror, have a black cat walk in front of you, or talk about a future outcome something that may be negative. In France, you will have bad luck if you: wear new clothes on Friday, give carnations or chrysanthemums as a gift, or put your hat on a bed. In Russia, if you forgot something at home and return to get it, you should look in the mirror to avoid bad luck. You also shouldn’t kiss or greet someone in a doorway, take out the trash after sunset, or eat food from a knife. In the Middle East, if your right hand itches, you will soon get to see someone that you haven’t seen in a long time. Good news!
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Excluding the factor of religion, every nation has superstitions of which some originated thousands of years ago. People, who desires or simply believe that some items will bring the good fortune bestowed on them, will always have the items with them. Every culture has its own superstitions, and its own charms for keeping on the right side of fate. Many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries fear the evil eye, misfortune caused by the envy and covetousness of others. Amulets like the nazar or the hamsa ward off the evil eye, and are often hung near valued possessions or given to loved ones for protection. If, for instance, you’re worried about your valuables in Istanbul, pick up a nazar at the Grand Bazaar. In feng shui, ba gua mirrors are used to rechannel energy, and Chinese often hang them outdoors to frighten off evil spirits, who catch a glimpse of their ugly mugs and flee. The charm of these charms is that they are small, pretty, usually inexpensive, and available in markets and shops the world over. They’re an easy way to bring home a bit of local culture. Besides, if your flight gets delayed, it can’t hurt to give that Ganesh amulet another try.
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残り物には福がある。
There is luck in the last helping.
Lucky Chinese Coins Photographed at the Wollongong Produce Market
Eastern In Asian culture luck is not something that falls randomly upon deserving and undeserving alike, as it does here in America, nor is Heaven as benevolent as the Christian God, who “gives rain to the just and the unjust”. Good fortune for Asians is an elusive but sometimes suggestible entity that must be wooed and won by following strict rites and rituals, and Heaven is more than ready to punish any who forsake the venerated social and religious practices. In traditional Asian thought, auspiciousness or its opposite are present in almost every aspect of everyday life. The Chinese word for the number four is avoided, particularly during certain times of the year, because it sounds like the word for death, a highly inauspicious topic at the best of times. Actions that were regarded as universally auspicious or inauspicious have been used to augment or destroy social and political relationships, such as in Lady Hyegyong’s Memoirs, where the sovereign of the Korean court drives his son to hatred and then to madness by his deliberately inauspicious actions toward him. This is an excellent example of how deeply entrenched the idea is in Asian thought. Many of the father’s actions toward his son were not intrinsically harmful in any way; it was entirely the son’s perception of them as inauspicious that caused the mental damage and his ensuing insanity and death.
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Shoppers at a New Year market Chinatown, Singapore
Another integral component of any Asian celebration, traditional or modern, is color. In spite of the many changes that modernization has brought, the linking of certain colors with prosperity, luck, and destiny remains. The art of Feng Shui claims to alter the flow of living energy and bring good luck, fortune, etc. by the placement of colors in respect to direction. More generally speaking, colors represent auspicious or inauspicious things, for example the color red, the dominant color in Chinese society and culture, represents warmth, life, and the Fire element. Linked to the Earth element, gold or yellow represents power and position. In ancient times, only the emperors were allowed to wear yellow, as it was a symbol of their exalted social status. This may seem outdated and one would be tempted to imagine it is a vanishing remnant of a vanishing way of life, but in fact it is still undeniably part of everyday life, even permeating the world of electronics and children’s toys. In addition, Buddhism probably is the wide-range religion in Asian Countries. Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, taught his followers not to believe in luck. The view which was taught by Gautama Buddha states that all things which happen must have a cause, either material or spiritual, and do not occur due to luck, chance or fate. The idea of moral causality, karma, is central in Buddhism. In the Sutta Nipata, the Buddha is recorded as having said the following about selling luck:
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Whereas some religious men, while living of food provided by the faithful make their living by such low arts, such wrong means of livelihood as palmistry, divining by signs, interpreting dreams ... bringing good or bad luck ... invoking the goodness of luck ... picking the lucky site for a building, the monk Gautama refrains from such low arts, such wrong means of livelihood. D.I, 9–12
However belief in luck is prevalent in many predominantly Buddhist countries. In Thailand, Buddhists may wear verses takrut or lucky amulets which have been blessed by monks for protection against harm.
Gates at Fushimi Inari-taisha Kyoto, Japan
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El que mucho mal padece, con poco bien se consuela.
For someone suffering great ills, a little fortune is enough to comfort him.
Buildings with Barnstars Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Western In terms of the lucky culture in western societies, a superstition is anything that people believe that is based on myth, magic, or irrational thoughts. They are beliefs that are steeped in lore or tradition, and it is usually difficult to pinpoint the exact origin. Superstitions are also known as old wives’ tales, legends, and traditions. They may involve animals, graveyards, ghosts, inanimate objects, or even other people. Most superstitions start in fact, and then become distorted over years and years of use. Others formed from religious beliefs. For example, a popular superstition, that it is bad luck to walk under a ladder, came from Christian religion. The ladder makes a triangle with the wall and ground, representing the Holy Trinity. Walking through the triangle, under the ladder, meant that you were in league with the devil, and might lead the other villagers to condemn you as a witch. In addition, many cultures around the world have superstitions about numbers. Western tradition is that the number thirteen is unlucky, but seven is lucky. At the same time, there are also many superstitions about luck. It is bad luck in theater culture to wish someone good luck before a show. The correct thing to say is “break a leg.� It is bad luck in Western cultures to spill salt,
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Fig 1.1
Fig 1.2
Fig 1.3
break a mirror, or see three butterflies together. Four leaf clovers (Fig 1.2) and horseshoes (Fig 1.3), after they have fallen off of a horse, as considered lucky, as is carrying around an acorn. Furthermore, in most Western cultures, green is the color of luck due to the St. Patrick’s Day and it is also the national color of Ireland. The Irish have considered shamrocks as good-luck symbols since earliest times, and today people of many other nationalities also believe they bring good luck. So that green represents luck throughout most of the West. In western societies, green also refers to nature, the environment and protection of environmental causes, such as “green business” or “green household cleansers.” Green is also associated with Christmas, when used in combination with red. It is also the symbol of progress — green means “go” — but can also represent of envy.
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In our daily lives, if we pick cards randomly from a pack (perhaps, the lower value of the card, the less likely we are to win the game), when we pick a low card it is likely to be followed by a higher card. When we pick a few low cards in a row, we are equally likely to pick a higher card next time. If, when we have picked a series of low cards, we perform some action (such as putting
Fig 1.1 - Dreamcatcher
on a hat), we can mistakenly attribute the ending of the losing streak to the fact that we just put
It is a handmade object based on a willow hoop,
on a hat. On average, things return to the normal, and with a series of results this is called the regression to average. What does all this have with superstition, beliefs and religion? The social
on which is woven a loose net or web.
Fig 1.2 - Four-leaf Clover
psychologist David Myers explains that “when things reach a low point, we will try anything,
It is an uncommon variation of the common,
and whatever we try - going to a psychotherapist, starting a new diet-exercise plan, reading a
people often believe leaves bring good luck to
self-help book - is more likely to be followed by improvement than by further deterioration”, and
their finders.
this statistical naïvety often leads people into thinking some supernatural ‘luck’ or religious ‘reward’ has taken place. This explains why a conversion to a new religion when done at a low point in one’s life, often leads to an improvement. The same with making sacrifices to a new god, or praying harder than normal; if done during desperate times (such as during drought, alcohol-
Fig 1.3 - Horseshoe It is considered a lucky symbol and used to be hung in many homes to protect and attract good fortune for the family residing inside.
ism or financial ruin), the chances are things will get better simply because the law of regression takes effect, but in practice many would mistakenly attribute their reversed fortunes to their new supernatural affiliation. Superstition is an integral part of almost every culture around the world. Even people who do not believe in superstition may still pause before walking under a ladder, or may think of a wish when they see a falling star. People have good luck charms, such as a rabbit’s foot or a lucky piece of jewelry. Some men believe that wearing a particular hat or pair of socks will make their favorite sports team win a game. Superstitions, whether believed by a whole culture or just one person, still have some sway over people’s lives, with or without having any actual power.
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發大財靠運氣，發小財靠力氣。
Great fortune depends on luck, a small one on diligence.
Evil eye stone decoration Cappadocia, Turkey
Middle Eastern Same as western culture, lucky culture in the Middle East is also religion-oriented. The Middle East is very diverse when it comes to religions, many of which originated there. Islam is the largest religion in the Middle East, but other faiths that originated there, such as Judaism and Christianity, are also well represented. Christians represent a proportionally, 41% of Lebanon, where the Lebanese President, Lebanese Army General and Central Bank Governor has to be Christian. There are also important minority religions like the Bahá’í Faith, Yazdânism, Zoroastrianism, Mandeanism, Druze, Yarsan, Yazidism and Shabakism, and in ancient times the region was home to Mesopotamian Religion, Canaanite Religion, Manicheanism, Mithraismand various Monotheist Gnostic sects. Some of the symbols feature luck in the Middle East, these sysmbols are often displayed in the public. Firstly, The Magen David is the symbol most commonly associated with Judaism today, but it is actually a relatively new Jewish symbol. The symbol of intertwined equilateral triangles is a common one in the Middle East and North Africa, and is thought to bring good luck. It appears occasionally in early Jewish artwork, but never as an exclusively Jewish symbol. The
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nearest thing to an “official� Jewish symbol at the time was the menorah. In addition, in Islam, the hamsa, also called the Hand of Fatima, is the most iconic symbol to have the power of luck. It is a palm-shaped amulet popular throughout the Middle East and North Africa, and commonly used in jewelry and wall hangings. Depicting the open right hand, an image recognized and used as a sign of protection in many societies throughout history, the hamsa is believed to provide defense against the evil eye. Meanwhile, it is in honor of one of the daughters of the Prophet The Symbol of the Evil Eye
Mohammed. Some say that in Islamic tradition the five fingers represent the Five Pillars of Is-
The evil eye is a malevolent look that many cul-
lam. Many scholars believe that the hamsa predates both Judaism and Islam, though no one is
tures believe able to cause injury or misfortune
certain of its origin.
for the person at whom it is directed for reasons of envy or dislike.
Middle East Street Market Marrakech City, Morocco 28
According to the tradition, people are visited by the spirits of their ancestors on the last days of the year. Many children wrap themselves in shrouds, symbolically re-enacting the visits. They also run through the streets banging on pots and pans with spoons and knocking on doors to ask for treats. The ritual is called qashogh-zany (spoon beating) and symbolizes the beating out of the last unlucky Wednesday of the year. There are also several other traditions on this night that involve getting rid of bad luck before the New Year begins. These rituals include Kuze Shekastan, the breaking of earthen jars which symbolically hold ones bad fortune; the ritual of Fal-GÝsh, or inferring one’s future from the conversations of those passing by; and the ritual of Gereh- goshai, making a knot in the corner of a handkerchief or garment and asking the first passerby to unravel it in order to remove ones misfortune. After the twelfth day of the festival, the thirteenth day of the festival is Sizdah Bedar. On this day people are expected to go out of doors. This is a day of festivity often accompanied by music and dancing, usually at family picnics. Hence Nowruz lasts twelve days and the thirteenth day represents the time of chaos when families put order aside and avoid the bad luck associated with the number thirteen by going outdoors and having picnics and parties. Similar to thanksgiving day in America, the Festival of Mihr is a day of thanksgiving dedicated
Nazar Boncugu Accessories
to the highest Angel, Mithra, an important deity or divine concept in Zoroastrianism and later Persian mythology and culture in the Middle East. For this celebration, the participants wear new clothes and set a decorative, colorful table. The table is decorated with wild marjoram and traditional sweets, fruits, and vegetables are added to the table, along with a mirror. In some of the villages in Yazd, Zoroastrians still sacrifice sheep to Mihr. During the meal, the family stands in front of the mirror to pray. They drink sherbet and then rub antimony, a silvery white metalloid, around their eyes, as a ritual of good luck. As they embrace each other, they throw handfuls of marjoram, seeds, and sugar plums over each others’ heads.
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La fortune sourit aux audacieux.
Fortune favours the brave.
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part II Lucky Objects from around the Globe
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chapter
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Dreamcatcher Dream catchers are one of the most fascinating traditions
catches the dreams as they flow by. The good dreams know
of Native Americans. The traditional dream catcher was
how to pass through the dream catcher, slipping through
intended to protect the sleeping individual from negative
the outer holes and slide down the soft feathers so gently
dreams, while letting positive dreams through. The posi-
that many times the sleeper does not know that he/she is
tive dreams would slip through the hole in the center of the
dreaming. The bad dreams not knowing the way get tan-
dream catcher, and glide down the feathers to the sleep-
gled in the dream catcher and perish with the first light of
ing person below. The negative dreams would get caught
the new day. The dream catcher has been a part of Native
up in the web, and expire when the first rays of the sun
American culture for generations. One element of Native
struck them. Native Americans believe that the night air is
American dream catcher relates to the tradition of the
filled with dreams both good and bad. The dream catcher
hoop. Many symbols started around the hoop, and one of
when hung over or near your bed swinging freely in the air,
these symbols is the dream catcher.
The Origin of the Dreamcatcher
an, known as Asibikaashi; she took care of the children and
Dreamcatchers originated with the Ojibwe people and were
the people on the land. Eventually, the Ojibwe Nation spread
later adopted by some neighboring nations through inter-
to the corners of North America and it became difficult for
marriage and trade. It wasn’t until the Pan-Indian Movement
Asibikaashi to reach all the children. So the mothers and
of the 1960s and 1970s, that they were adopted by Native
grandmothers would weave magical webs for the children,
Americans of a number of different nations. Some consid-
using willow hoops and sinew, or cordage made from plants.
er the dreamcatcher a symbol of unity among the various
The dreamcatchers would filter out all bad dreams and only
Indian Nations, and a general symbol of identification with
allow good thoughts to enter our mind. Once the sun ris-
Native American or First Nations cultures. However, many
es, all bad dreams just disappear. American ethnographer
other Native Americans have come to see dreamcatchers
Frances Densmore writes in her book Chippewa Customs
as over-commercialized, offensively misappropriated and
(1929, republished 1979, pg. 113):
misused by non-Natives. Even infants were provided with protective charms. ExDreamcatcher hanging inside the vehicle
36
The Ojibwe people have an ancient legend about the origin
amples of these are the “spiderwebs” hung on the hoop
of the dreamcatcher. Storytellers speak of the Spider Wom-
of a cradle board. These articles consisted of wooden
hoops about 3½ inches in diameter filled with an imitation of a spider’s web made of fine yarn, usually dyed red. In old times this netting was made of nettle fiber. Two spider webs were usually hung on the hoop, and it was said that they “caught any harm that might be in the air as a spider’s web catches and holds whatever comes in contact with it.” Traditionally, the Ojibwe construct dreamcatchers by tying sinew strands in a web around a small round or tear-shaped frame of willow in a way roughly similar to their method for making snowshoe webbing. The resulting “dream-catcher”, hung above the bed, is used as a charm to protect sleeping people, usually children, from nightmares. The Ojibwe believe that a dreamcatcher changes a person’s dreams. According to Konrad J. Kaweczynski, “Only good dreams would be allowed to filter through… Bad dreams would stay in the net, disappearing with the light of day.” Good dreams would pass through and slide down the feathers to the sleeper. Another explanation of Lakota origin, “Nightmares pass through the holes and out of the window. The good dreams are trapped in the web, and then slide down the feathers to the sleeping person.”
Dreamcatcher Decoration
37
Dreamcatcher Home Decoration
Dreamcatcher Keychain
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Dreamcatcheres in Street Market ByWard Market in Ottawa, Canada 39
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03
Dreamcatcheres in Street Market Otavalo Market, Ecuador
The Features of the Dreamcatcher
be a unique wall hanging, which is considered a good luck
A Dream Catcher is a hoop, meaning a circle of life, on
charm or an effective manifestation tool.
which is woven a web. Adorning the hoop are feathers,
42
bones, crystals and other sacred items that represent your
Details of the Shape
dreams. The web acts as a filter. Good dreams are captured
The strings or sinews are tied at several points on the circle,
in the web, sliding down the feathers and into your life.
with the number of points on the dreamcatcher having dif-
Nightmares pass through the web. A Dream Catcher can
ferent meanings:
• 13 points – the 13 phases of the moon
A dreamcatcher can also have a feather tied to the bottom
• 8 points – the number of legs on the spider woman of
and beads or animal tokens hanging on the strands. Tra-
the dreamcatcher legend
ditional dreamcatchers are only a few inches in diameter,
• 7 points – the seven prophecies of the grandfathers
but you will see contemporary models anywhere from a few
• 6 points – an eagle or courage
inches to 1 foot across.
• 5 points – the star
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Dreamcatcher Decoration
The Legends of the Dreamcatcher
but each legend has slightly different twists that are partic-
Legend says that if you hang a dreamcatcher above a bed, it
ular to that region of the country.
will catch the bad dreams in the web while letting the good
44
dreams through the hole in the middle. As the sun’s rays hit
Ojibway Legend: This is the story of how the spider woman
the dreamcatcher in the morning, all of the bad dreams will
brought the sun back to the people of the world. Once, the
evaporate. Each tribe has a similar dreamcatcher legend,
Ojibway people were gathered together as one nation.
As the people dispersed to the four corners of North Amer-
as the spider woman traps insects in her sticky web, the bad
ica, Asibikaashi (the spider woman) swore that she would
dreams are trapped in the web of the dreamcatcher and
continue to take care of the children, but couldn’t get to
perish as the sun hits them every morning. Many mothers
each bed every night. The women of the tribe wove mag-
tied a feather to the hoop in the center representing breath
ic webs shaped like a circle (which is how the sun travels
or air. The baby would watch the feather and be entertained
through the sky) and hung them over the cradleboards. Just
as it danced on the wind above its head.
45
Chippewa Legend: This legend says dreamcatchers were made to prevent children from awakening with the fear of the bad dreams still in their eyes. Mothers wove a web on a willow hoop while saying sacred words and thinking happy thoughts. They would hang the sacred feathers from the center so that when the good dreams find their way to the center, they will float down the feathers and sprinkle onto the sleepers. An owl feather stood for wisdom and was placed above the beds of girls, while an eagle feather stood for courage and was placed above the beds of boys. Lakota Legend: In this legend, it says an old spiritual leader had a vision. Iktomi, the great teacher and trickster appeared as a spider. Iktomi took the elder’s willow hoop and began to spin a web as he spoke of the cycle of life from infant to old age. He told the elder that if you listen to the good ideas, the forces at work will steer you in the right direction. If you listen to the bad, the forces will steer you in the bad direction. He showed the elder that the web was a perfect circle, but had a hole in the center. Iktomi told him that the good ideas will be caught in the web, but the bad ones will go through the hole and not stick as it sifts the dreams and visions of his people.
Dreamcatcher Home Decoration
46
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depending on how many points you want on your web. This will leave you with the string circling the hoop 1 time. Step 3. Start the second round of weaving by looping the string through the straight parts of the first round, in between the points on the hoop. As you work your way around the hoop and tighten the string, it will begin to pull the strings into a diamond shape. Step 4. Keep repeating with additional rounds till you have woven the entire web, leaving a small hole in the middle.
How the Dreamcatcher is Made Using a hoop of willow, and decorating it with findings, bits
Step 5. Tie it off at an inconspicuous point.
and pieces of everyday life such as feathers, arrow heads, beads, etc. The dream catcher is believed to have the pow-
Step 6. Hang feathers or beads from the center if you wish.
er to catch all of a person’s dreams, trapping the bad ones, and letting only the good dreams pass through the dream
Giving someone a dreamcatcher, whether it is one you’ve
catcher. There are several different ways to make a basic
made yourself or one you’ve purchased from a Native
dreamcatcher, Detailed instructions can be found in books
American craftsman, tells the giver that you care about
or on websites, here are the simplified steps:
him and his peace of mind. Make sure that she get a note describing the significance of the dreamcatcher and how
Step 1. Use willow or grapevine to make a circle of any size,
legend says that it will protect her from bad dreams and
usually between three and eight inches in diameter. Many
negative thoughts. Many people now put dreamcatchers
The Making of Nazar Boncugu
people like to wrap the hoop with suede or leather for a
all around the house as Native American décor and you will
With the traditional technique, nazar boncugu
more rustic look.
even see them hanging from the review mirrors of many
(evil eye bead) making is primitive. It’s totally hand made. Makers use a thick and a thin iron rod; and roll the base of the nazar bead on the thick rod.
cars. It isn’t known whether a dreamcatcher in the car can Step 2. Get some strong, thin string. Tie it in a loop at the
protect you from the bad thoughts of other drivers, but it
top of the circle where you will hang the dreamcatcher. Loop
probably couldn’t hurt.
the string around the hoop, approximately every 1-2 inches,
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Dreamcatcher Making in Process
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chapter
5
Horseshoe A horseshoe is a fabricated product, normally made of met-
considered a lucky symbol and used to be hung in many
al, although sometimes made partially or wholly of modern
homes to protect and attract good fortune for the family
synthetic materials, designed to protect a horse’s hoof
residing inside. Some believe that to hang it with the ends
from wear. Shoes are attached on the palmar surface of
pointing upwards is good luck as it acts as a storage con-
the hooves, usually nailed through the insensitive hoof wall
tainer of sorts for any good luck that happens to be float-
that is anatomically akin to the human toenail, though much
ing by, whereas to hang it with the ends pointing down, is
larger and thicker. Horseshoes are available in a wide vari-
bad luck as all the good luck will fall out. Others believe that
ety of materials and styles, developed for different types of
the horseshoe should be hung the other way with the ends
horse and for the work they do. However, there are many
pointing down, as it will then release its luck to the people
cases where shoes are glued. When kept as a talisman, a
around it. A stylized variation of the horseshoe is used for a
horseshoe is said to bring good luck. The horseshoe is also
popular throwing game, horseshoes.
Used Horseshoe Display
52
The Origin of the Horseshoe
over the door. Dunstan eventually became the Archbishop
This little horseshoe, shown here life-size, is actually a
of Canterbury in 959 AD and is known as Saint Dunstan.
hand-forged pony shoe that my daughter Althaea and i discovered and dug out of the ground one day in 1976 while we
The use of worn-out horseshoes as magically protective
were walking an old logging trail through the woods in the
amulets, especially hung above or next to doorways, origi-
Missouri Ozarks. It probably dates from the 1910s to 1930s.
nated in Europe, where one can still find them nailed onto houses, barns, and stables from Italy through Germany and
The horseshoe superstition is one of good luck and good
up into Britain and Scandinavia. Additionally, wall hangins
fortune. It is believed that the good luck powers of the
made in the form of horseshoes are common. In the Mid-
horseshoe date back to the story of a blacksmith named
dle-East, one finds the terra cotta blue-glazed horseshoe
Dunstan and a man he believed was the devil. It is said that
plaque. In Turkey small metal or blue glass horseshoes are
a man came to Dunstan and requested that he put horse-
blended with the protective all-seeing eye to form a unique
shoes on his feet (hoofs). Dunstan recognized this man as
apotropaic charm that is considered the horseshoe and
the devil and nailed a horseshoe to the devil’s hoof. Seeing
eyes is believed to ward off the evil eye.
that the devil was in great pain, it is said that he chained him while he was in agony and only released him after the devil promised never to enter a place that had a horseshoe hung
Used Horseshoe Decoration
53
Horseshoe Decoration
54
Horseshoe Decorative Display
Horseshoe Decoration
55
02
03
Horseshoe Decoration
58
A Stack of Used Horseshoes
The “U” Shape
However, there are others who believe that hanging it in a
The way the horseshoe is hung and displayed varies. Some
downward position allows all of the good luck, protective
regions of the world believe that hanging the horseshoe in
powers and good fortune to shower upon you and surround
an upward position “U” holds in all the good luck and the
the home. If you are doubly superstitious, you might want to
powers it brings. For them, hanging the horseshoe upside
hang one in each position. The choice is yours.
down meant that its powers would fall away and dissipate.
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Horseshoe Decorative Display
Why Horseshoes Are Considered Lucky As with many superstitions, there are contradictions to be found with the beliefs associated with the horseshoe. For instance, many believe that to hang it with the ends pointing upwards is good luck as it acts as a storage container of sorts for any good luck that happens to be floating by, whereas to hang it with the ends pointing down, is bad luck as all the good luck will fall out. Others believe that no matter which way you hang the horseshoe, good luck will come. According to this superstition, the ends-pointing-down display simply means that the good luck is able to flow out and
60
surround the home. If the horseshoe is hung over a doorway, ends up will catch good luck and ends down will let the good luck spill over the door and stop evil from entering. Perhaps a combination of the two was used so that after a few days, when the horseshoe was filled with good luck, it would then need to be emptied so that residents could benefit from that luck and the process would be repeated until the end of time. Horseshoes were also considered lucky because they were made by blacksmiths, which is also considered a very lucky trade. Because they worked with elemental fire and magical iron, they were thought to have special powers. It was
Used Horseshoe Display
believed that a blacksmith could heal the sick and if a cou-
Another aspect of the horseshoe that added to it’s good luck
ple was married by a blacksmith, their marriage would be a
was the fact that it was commonly held in place by seven
happy one. Their work with horses also brought them much
iron nails. Since ancient times, the number seven was con-
power and prestige, not just because they made the lucky
sidered very important. Life was divided into seven ages; a
horseshoe but also because they were the keepers of the
rainbow has seven colors; astrology once held that seven
Horseman’s Word.
planets made up the universe; there are seven deadly sins; a seventh child was thought to have special powers; there are
Horseshoes were originally made from iron, which may also
seven days in a week; the moon changes from one phase to
account for the superstitions that are associated with this
another every seven days; and a long-held belief states that
object. Iron was considered magical because it was able to
the body goes through a radical change every seven years.
withstand fire and was much stronger than other metals. The superstitions for iron are thought to originate in prehis-
From early times to today people still wear horseshoe
toric times. It was used as a charm to ward off evil spirits.
charms and amulets to bring good luck. Horseshoes were
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originally held in place on the horse using seven iron nails,
fire, the horseshoe was also believed that it could ward off
as seven was considered a very lucky number. That is why
all evil spirits. It was believed that a witch would never enter
some horseshoes and/or charms are made with seven nail
a home with a horseshoe nailed to or over the door. Sus-
holes in them. It was also believed that hanging a horse-
pected witches who were tried and not burned at the stake,
shoe over one’s bed could prevent nightmares. It became a
but buried upon their deaths, had horseshoes nailed to their
common practice to hang a horseshoe outside of the home,
coffins to prevent them from returning to life or resurrecting
barn or store to ward off evil and bring good luck. The horse-
again as witches.
shoe was also used by sailors who nailed them to the foremasts of their ships to ward off evil spirits and entities from harming their ships, crew or preventing them from arriving at their destination safely. During the middle ages, for some reason it was believed that witches had a fear of horses, especially of their shoes, which were made from iron. Because iron could withstand
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03
chapter
6
Maneki-neko The maneki-neko, literally “beckoning cat”, is a common
is sometimes also called the welcoming cat, lucky cat, mon-
Japanese figurine (lucky charm, talisman), usually made of
ey cat, happy cat, or fortune cat in English.
ceramic in modern times, which is often believed to bring good luck to the owner. The cats, found in a variety of co-
Maneki-neko come in different colors, styles, and degrees
lours and styles, are usually sitting up with one paw raised in
of ornateness. Common colors are white, black, gold and
a gesture of beckoning. The figurine depicts a cat (tradition-
sometimes red. In addition to ceramic figurines, maneki-ne-
ally a calico Japanese Bobtail) beckoning with an upright
ko can be found as keychains, piggy banks, air fresheners,
paw, and is usually displayed—often at the entrance—in
house-plant pots, and miscellaneous ornaments, as well
shops, restaurants, pachinko parlors, and other business-
as large statues. Maneki-neko are sometimes mistakenly
es. Some of the sculptures are electric or battery-powered
called the “Chinese lucky cat”, as it is also increasingly pop-
and have a slow-moving paw beckoning. The maneki-neko
ular among Chinese merchants.
The Origin of the Maneki-neko The Origin of the Lucky Cat There are many stories surrounding the origin of the beckoning cat, perhaps the most popular being the Legend of the Gotokuji Temple. This story, which is thought to date back to the beginning of the Edo Period (1603 - 1867), tells of a local priest, who looked after the Gotoku-ji Temple in Tokyo and kept a cat. Despite his poverty, the priest often shared his limited food with his cat. One day, during a storm a samurai sheltering under a tree at the temple saw the priest’s cat, apparently beckoning to him to come into the temple for shelter. Just as he approached the cat, a bolt of lightning hit the tree that he had been shel-
66
tering under, causing it to crash to the ground where he had previously been standing. Grateful to the cat that had saved his life, the wealthy samurai rewarded the temple with funding for its upkeep and adopted it as his family place of worship. When the cat died, it was honoured by being buried in a special cemetery and a statue was made in his likeness, thus initiating the image of the lucky cat we know today. In Japan, the Maneki Neko is the most popular decoration at the entrances of homes and in store windows. The people of Japan use them as mascots, to bring good fortune, invite happiness, and bring prosperity to businesses.
Japanese Maneki-neko Photograph taken in Japanese Market
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02
Get Lucky
The History of Lucky Items
03
The Gesture To some Westerners (Italians and Spaniards are notable exceptions) it may seem as if the maneki-neko is waving rather than beckoning. This is due to the difference in gestures and body language recognized by some Westerners and the Japanese. The Japanese beckoning gesture is made by holding up the hand, palm out, and repeatedly folding the fingers down and back up, thus the cat’s appearance. Some maneki-neko made specifically for some Western markets will have the cat’s paw facing backwards, in a beckoning gesture familiar to more Westerners. Maneki-neko can be found with either the right or left paw raised (and sometimes both). The significance of the right and left raised paw differs with time and place. A common belief is that the left paw raised brings in customers, while a right paw brings good luck and wealth, although some believe the opposite, or that one paw is for luck and the other for wealth. Another interpretation says that a raised left paw attracts money, while a raised right paw protects it. Still others say that a left paw raised is best for drinking establishments, the right paw for other stores (those who hold Maneki-neko Home Decoration
their liquor well are called “left-handed” (hidari-kiki) in Japanese). Yet another interpretation is that right is for home and left for business. It is commonly believed the higher the raised paw, the greater the luck. Consequently, over the years maneki-neko’s paw has tended to appear ever higher. Some use the
70
paw height as a crude method of gauging the relative age of
of ornateness. Common colors are white, black, gold and
a figure. Another common belief is that the higher the paw,
sometimes red. In addition to ceramic figurines, maneki-ne-
the greater the distance good fortune will come from.
ko can be found as keychains, piggy banks, air fresheners, house-plant pots, and miscellaneous ornaments, as well
Some maneki-neko feature battery- or solar-powered
as large statues. Maneki-neko are sometimes mistakenly
moving arms endlessly engaged in the beckoning gesture.
called the "Chinese lucky cat", as it is also increasingly pop-
Maneki-neko come in different colors, styles, and degrees
ular among Chinese merchants.
Maneki-neko Product Display
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The Body Features
Paws
The most common color of the Maneki-neko generally is
For instance, with the right paw up, it means bringing good
white, followed by black and gold, and occasionally red is
luck with money; with the left paw up, it will bring many cus-
used as well. However,these color scheme are only made
tomers or visitors.
for traditional Maneki-neko. There are various colors of Maneki-neko representing different aspects of luck. For ex-
Decoration
ample, some consider white to be for good luck generally,
In terms of the features on the body, Maneki-neko usually
black for good health, and gold for monetary good fortune.
have some sort of decoration around their neck. This can
In fact, the cat’s color, her attire and which of her paws is
be a neckerchief or a scarf but the most common attire is a
raised, even the height at which her paw is raised, all has
collar, bell and decorative bib. These items are most likely
significance explanation.
in imitation of what was common attire for cats in wealthy
Blue Body
Red Body
Yellow Body
Golden Body
Bring intelligence and ac-
Protects from illnesses
Brings good relationships
Brings good wealth and
ademic success
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more prosperity
households during the Edo period. Red collars made from
This practice is somewhat similar to that of leaving coins in
a red flower, the hichirimen, were popular and small bells
a fountain or wishing well. Each of the features has different
were attached for decoration and to keep track of the cat’s
meaning. To be simplified, with gold bell, it will bring good
whereabouts. Maneki-neko are sometimes depicted hold-
fortune; with red scarf, it draws attention; with gold coin, it
ing a coin, usually a gold coin called a koban, used during the
maintains wealth.
Edo period in Japan. The coin ties into the cat’s part in bringing good fortune and wealth. It is not surprising then that
Colors
maneki-neko are often fashioned as coin banks, a practice
While you’ll most commonly see a white Maneki Neko with
which goes back at least to the 1890s, much like the West-
orange and black spots, there are quite a few color varia-
ern piggy bank. Sometimes pennies and other small coin
tions and they each have a special meaning.
denominations are left on the maneki-neko as offerings.
White Body
Green Body
Black Body
Pink Body
Brings good luck and lon-
Bring well knowledge
Wards off evil spirits and
Brings love
gevity (good health)
protects from illnesses
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Modern Culture Nowadays, if you’ve ever visited a Chinese or Japanese restaurant, Asian supermarket, or any Chinatown shop for that matter, you’ve probably noticed a little cat figurine perched quietly by the cash register. The Maneki-neko (Fortune Cat) becomes a lucky charm that’s very popular in Japanese and Chinese cultures. It’s a talisman that is believed to attract good luck and fortune for its owners. Thus, it’s very common to find one on display in stores, restaurants and other businesses. In addition, in modern Japanese culture, maneki-neko can be frequently found in rooms on the third floors of buildings, due to the auspicious qualities associated with the number three. Modern Japanese folklore suggests that keeping a talisman of good fortune, such as the maneki-neko, in bedrooms and places of study will bring about favorable results and life successes. Due to its popularity in Chinese communities, which includes Chinatowns in the United States, the maneki-neko is frequently mistaken for being Chinese in origin rather than Japanese, and is incorrectly referred to as a “Chinese lucky cat” or “golden cat”.
74
Maneki-neko Photograph taken in a Japanese Temple
75
chapter
7
Barn Star A barn star, also called primitive star or Pennsylvania star,
ber of wooden barn stars to individual builders in the Penn-
is a decorative painted object or image, often in the shape
sylvania area, where numerous examples can still be seen.
of a five-pointed star but occasionally in a circular “wagon
Barn stars were used in the United States during the 18th
wheel� style, used to adorn a barn. They have no structural
century and as late as 1870 in Pennsylvania, where their
purpose, but may be considered lucky, akin to a horseshoe
popularity increased greatly following the Civil War. Their
mounted over a doorway. They are especially common in
regular use preceded that time, however, and stars were
Pennsylvania and frequently seen in German-American
commonplace on large buildings, particularly factories, in
farming communities. Barn stars were meant to represent
pre-war Richmond, Virginia. Barn stars, decorated with sim-
the mark of the builder, but became more frequently used
ple, metal, five-pointed stars, remain a very popular form of
for aesthetic purposes and were added to the building after
decoration and modern houses. They are often deliberately
construction was complete. Enthusiasts have traced a num-
distressed or rusted, alluding to the traditional decoration.
The Origin of the Barn Star The origin of barn stars in Amish country can be traced back to the 1700’s, and to at least the 1820’s in Pennsylvania. Barn stars were most popular after the Civil War. On many older barns, one could see a large decoration in the shape of a star mounted on the face of the barn. Sometimes they were just aesthetic, but sometimes they represented the trademark of a specific barn builder. With shape changes of barn star throughout the years, the barn star composition has also changed over the years. At first stars were built directly onto the barn. Later on, the stars were crafted from wood as a separate piece. While this subject is still highly debated, most evidence points to the elaborate “hex-signs” painted on the side of older Dutch and German barns. Hex simply means “witch” in German. These hex designs were elaborately painted multi-directional lines that would intersect and cause the illusion that the sign is multi dimensional. On occasion other signs or ornaments would be painted into the design, such as crosses or birds. Often the signs Barnstar Home Decoration
were painted to ward off evil spirits or to bring good luck to the farm. The use of color was also a significant factor in the design. As time went on, the truely 3-dimensional star arrived. At first, craftsmen would build the stars or “signs” out of wood. The stars would then be painted and hung on the side of barns. This was to ease the effort of painting the star. As time went on, different material was used, finally ending in metal.
78
Barnstar Home Decoration
80
Barnstar Home Decoration
Barnstar Home Decoration
81
A Stack of Barn Stars in Different Colors
The Shapes and Colors The original metal star shapes was a three or four pointed star but that has changed throughout the years. The barn star has changed over the years too, at first stars were built directly onto the barn. Later the stars were crafted from wood as a separate piece of artwork. Presently they are made of varying grades of metal. We uses 22 gauge galvanized metal (the thickness of a dime) to ensure that our customers are purchasing the best quality barn star available and won’t rust on you. While many folks assign “meaning” to the barn stars, we think that they are simply a wonderful decorative accent and that they look great on barns, homes, garages, or anywhere indoors. Colors have also been given “meanings. Below you will find the colors and meanings of metal stars.
84
Black
Blue
Brown
means protection, also used to
means protection, peace, calm-
means mother earth, also can
blend or bind elements together
ness and spirituality.
mean friendship and strength.
Green
Orange
Red
means growth, fertility, success in
means abundance in career,
means emotions, passion, charis-
things and ideas that grow.
projects and matters needing an
ma, lust and also creativity.
added push.
Violet
White
Yellow
means things that are sacred.
means purity, power of the moon,
means health in body and mind,
allows energy to flow freely.
love of man and the sun, connection to God. 85
Barnstar Home Decoration
86
Barnstar Home Decoration
Barnstar Home Decoration
Barnstar Home Decoration
87
Barnstar with Hex Sign
Painted Hex Sign
On older buildings in the Pennsylvania Dutch area of the
rod-and-plate assembly serves to brace the masonry wall
United States it is still possible to find barnstar-like building
against tilting or lateral bowing.
adornments which are painted, rather than wooden or metal, known as hex signs. Strictly speaking, they are defined
In the last 30 years, barn stars were constructed from roof-
apart from barnstars and visually bear only passing resem-
ing tiles, giving them a rough finish. Recently, since the ‘90s,
blance, but the two are often confused and their names are
local craftsmen have been making them from thin steel, un-
even regarded as interchangeable.Some hex signs incorpo-
finished, so they rust. The present-day Barn Star, now pop-
rate star shapes, while others may take the form of a rosette
ular on homes of every size and shape, has come to mean
or contain pictures of birds and other animals.
an outward sign of good luck and good fortune!
The term barnstar has been incorrectly applied to starshaped anchor plates that are used for structural reinforcement, particularly on masonry buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. These are made of cast iron and are used as tie plates serving as the washers for tie rods. The tie-
88
Buildings with Barnstars Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
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chapter
8
Red Envelopes In Chinese and other Asian societies, a red envelope or red
yao lishi, and in the south of China, lai see. Red envelopes
packet is a monetary gift which is given during holidays or
are usually given out by married couples to single people,
special occasions such as weddings, the birth of a baby
especially to children or work colleagues.Especially when
or graduation. In addition to China, similar customs exist
it comes to Chinese Lunar New Year, mainly in Southern
in Japan, Korea and many other countries where a size-
China, red envelopes are typically given by the married to
able ethnic Chinese population is present. Meanwhile, Red
the unmarried, most of whom are children. The amount of
envelopes are gifts presented at social and family gather-
money is usually notes to avoid heavy coins and to make
ings such as weddings or on holidays such as the Chinese
it difficult to judge the amount inside before opening. It is
New Year. The red color of the envelope symbolizes good
traditional to put brand new notes inside red envelopes and
luck and is supposed to ward off evil spirits. The act of re-
also to avoid opening the envelopes in front of the relatives
questing for red packets is normally called tao hongbao or
out of courtesy.
A Stack of Red Envelopes
92
The Origin of the Red Envelope During the Qin Dynasty in China, the elderly would thread coins with a red string. The money was referred to a belief to protect youth from sickness and death. The yasui qian was replaced by red envelopes when printing presses became more common and is now found written using the homophone for suì that means “old age” instead of “evil spirits” thus, “money warding off old age”. Red envelopes continue to be referred to by such names today. The traditional red envelopes that hold the monetary gifts date back to the ancient tradition of celebrating the Lunar New Year in Chinese culture. The legends associated with
magical and evil entity that was defeated. Although most people agree that the red envelope tradition is centuries old and, there is some debate over whether money has always been a part of the tradition, or whether the money became a part of the tradition at a later stage. In addition, the another story regarding to the red envelope states that the red envelope originated in the Sung Dynasty in China, when a young orphan defeated a huge demon terrorizing the village of Chain-Chieu. Although the greatest warriors of the time could not defeat this demon, the young orphan was able to kill the demon by using a magical saber. To show their gratitude, the elders of the village presented the orphan with a red envelope filled with money.
the origins of the red envelopes vary, but most include a
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The Meaning of Red Envelopes A red envelope is simply a long, narrow, red envelope with money in it. Traditional red envelopes are often decorated with gold Chinese characters like happiness and wealth. Variations of the red envelope include red envelopes with cartoon characters and red envelopes from stores and companies that contain coupons and gift certificates inside. Unlike a Western greeting card, red envelopes given at Chinese New Year are typically left unsigned. For birthdays or weddings, a short message, typically a four character expression, and signature are optional. Some four character expressions appropriate for a wedding red envelope are 天作之合 (marriage made in heaven) or 百年好合 (happy union for one hundred years). Why Are the Envelopes Red and Are There Other Colors? Red symbolizes luck. Other envelope colors are used for other occasions, for example, white enveloped are used for funerals. When Are Red Envelopes Given and Who Gets a Red Envelope? Red envelopes are handed out to younger generations by their parents, grandparents, relatives, and even close neighbors and friends during Chinese New Year. At some companies, workers may also receive a year-end cash bonus tucked inside a red envelope. Red envelopes are also popular gifts for weddings and birthdays.
96
When giving someone a red envelope, use both hands to present the red envelope to the recipient. Giving and receiving red envelopes, gifts, and even business cards is a solemn act. Therefore, red envelopes, gifts and name cards are always presented with both hands and also received with both hands. The recipient of a red envelope at Chinese New Year or on his or her birthday should not open it in front of the giver. At Chinese weddings, the procedure is different. At a Chinese wedding, there is a table at the entrance of the wedding reception where guests give their red envelopes to attendants and sign their names on a large scroll. The attendants will immediately open the envelope, count the money inside, and record it on a register next to the guests’ names. A record is kept of how much each guest gives to the newlyweds. This is done for several reasons. One reason is bookkeeping. A record insures the newlyweds know how much each guest gave and can verify the amount of money they receive at the end of the wedding from the attendants is the same as what the guests brought. Another reason is that when unmarried guests eventually get married, the bride and groom are typically obliged to give the guest more money than what the newlyweds received at their wedding. How Much Money Goes Inside the Red Envelope? It depends on the situation. There is great debate over how much to give. The amount of money in red envelopes given to children for Chinese New Year depends on age and the
giver’s relationship to the child. For younger children, the
Less money is given for birthdays than other holidays be-
equivalent of about $7 dollars is fine.More money is given to
cause it is viewed as the least important of the three occa-
older children and teenagers. The amount is usually enough
sions. Nowadays, people often just bring gifts for birthdays.
for the child to buy himself his own gift like a T-shirt or DVD. Parents may give the child a more substantial amount since
For all occasions, certain amounts of money are to be avoid-
material gifts are usually not given during the holidays.
ed. Anything with a four is best avoided because 四 (four) sounds similar to 死 (death). Even numbers, except four,
For employees at work, the year-end bonus is typically the
are better than odd. Eight is a particularly auspicious num-
equivalent of one month’s wage though the amount can
ber. The money inside a red envelope should always be new
vary from enough money to buy a small gift to more than
and crisp. Folding the money or giving dirty or wrinkled bills
one month’s wage.
is in bad taste. Coins and checks are avoided, the former because change is not worth much and the latter because
If you go to a wedding, the money in the red envelope should
checks are not widely used in Asia.
be equivalent to a nice gift that would be given at a Western wedding. It should be enough money to cover the guest’s expense at the wedding. For example, if the wedding dinner costs the newlyweds US$35 per person, then the money in the envelope should be at least US$35. In Taiwan, typical amounts on money are: NT$1,200, NT$1,600, NT$2,200, NT$2,600, NT$3,200 and NT$3,600. As with Chinese New Year, the amount of money is relative to your relationship to the recipient - the closer your relationship to the bride and groom, the more money that is expected. Immediate family like parents and siblings give more money than casual friends. It is not uncommon for business partners to be invited to weddings. Business partners often put more money in the envelope to strengthen the business relationship.
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The Design of the Red Envelope The bright, colorful image on the front of a red envelope is designed to represent blessings and good wishes of long life, success and good health to the receiver of the envelope. The image used on the front of a red envelope wish blessings and good wishes of long life, prosperity and good health. Through the years, artists have always found new ways to improve the message of good tidings over the years by using images with auspicious meanings such as carps swimming amongst flowering lotus, the fabled creatures of dragon and phoenix, Chinese zodiac animals depending on the year it will be used, peonies in full bloom, the three immortals, golden pineapples, Buddha’s and children. All of these designs have very eye-catching designs and these are very beautiful as we can see from the varied designs. The stunning red envelopes exist over the years from and to friends, clients and family.
Red Envelopes in Different Types of Covers and Colors
In addition, translating to “good luck”, red envelopes are typically red and gold, as these colors are considered prosperous. You’ll see them sold everywhere in the month leading up to the festivities, and they come in a wide variety of designs. We’ve seen very simple ones containing only the character for “fortune” 福 (fook) or the character of your family name, to ones that are elaborately themed with popular characters like Mickey Mouse or Hello Kitty.
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03
A Stack of Red Envelopes in vertical view
Red Envelope Rules
gle friends, bosses to all of their employees (regardless of if
There are many different traditions or rules, but typically lai
they’re married or single), residents to their doormen, etc.
see are given from a senior to a junior. Relatives would give
All of this doesn’t sound too complicated until you factor in
them to the children in the family, married couples to sin-
that those envelopes are filled with money. During Chinese New Year, one of the most important rituals is the giving
100
and receiving of red envelopes. However, after experienc-
Giving Red Envelopes
ing this tradition last year, you should realize there is a lot
1. How much money should you put in envelopes?
more to it than simply giving and receiving red envelopes!
A good starting point is HK$20 ($2.57). The closer the re-
To aovid embarrassing yourself during this time of year, so
lationship, the more you’ll usually want to give. For most
here are some tips on red envelope etiquette.
close friends or relatives, you’ll give around HK$50-$100
101
Red Envelopes with Various Chinese Last Name Shown on the Fronts
($6.45-$12.90). It is rare to give over HK$1,000 ($128.94),
3. Do not give white envelopes because it will only be giv-
as this is usually only reserved for parents to their children.
en when it is the time of funerals! In addition, avoid giving
Pay attention! Do not give empty red envelopes to people! It
amounts such as $40 or $400. The number 4 in Cantonese
will be considered as impolite manner.
死 (“sei”) is one tone different than the word for “death”, so this is considered bad luck. Also, always give even numbers
2. Each envelope should contain a single note, not multiple
as odd numbers are reserved for funerals.
notes, and never coins. Since Hong Kong Dollars come in amounts of $10, $20, $50, $100, $500, and $1,000, if you
4. Only use new notes. In the week leading up to Chinese
want to give a higher amount it is not uncommon to give
New Year, you’ll always find horribly long queues at banks.
someone two envelopes. Meaning, if you want to give some-
Special counters specifically for lai see will be established
one $200, you would give them two envelopes each con-
and queues can reach an hour long just so people can re-
taining $100. As a married couple, it will be likely that you
ceive fresh notes!
will be giving two envelopes together anyways; one from the husband and one from the wife.
5. Always carry red envelopes with you during all 15 days of Chinese New Year. You never know whom you may bump
102
into that you may need to give an envelope to, and getting
just gave it to you, it will be considered as impolite manner.
caught empty-handed is not only bad manners, but also bad
Wait until you get home and then do it in private. If you really
luck. “No lai see” means “no good luck”!
want to be traditional, look up the most prosperous day for you to open all of your envelopes.
6. If you feel uncomfortable as a foreigner giving red envelopes, give a small gift instead. Generally something sweet
5. Only take red envelopes that have been handed to you.
and red or gold in color is preferred. If you’re in Hong Kong,
When visiting someone’s home during Chinese New Year,
you may have noticed that during this time of year, every-
you may notice red envelopes lying in a box of goodies being
where starts selling Ferrero Rochers for this exact situation.
presented to you. These are not for you; they are for decoration only.
Receiving Red Envelopes 1. Greet the giver properly. Make a fist with one hand and
6. If you have children, have some class. Don’t suddenly pa-
cup your other hand on top of it. Shake your hands togeth-
rade them around your friends or at the office in order for
er while repeating various New Year phrases like gung hei
them to rake in the dough. Just no.
fat choi (“congratulations and may you be prosperous“) or “sun tai geen hong” (“wishing you good health”). There are many New Year’s greetings so it’s best to memorize one or two phrases like this. 2. Always receive the envelope with both hands. As you receive the envelope, make eye contact, nod your head and say doh jeh (“thank you”). 3. As a foreigner watch your tones! red envelopes with a slight alteration in tone can suddenly turn from telling someone to have “good fortune” into telling someone to “lick shit”. Never a good way to start the new year! 4. Never open your red envelopes in front of the person who
Red Envelopes with “fortune” 福 on the front
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chapter
9
Rabbit’s Foot A rabbit’s foot, in most English-speaking countries, is con-
tends to focus their thoughts and energy, and it is actually
sidered a sign of good luck when carried on or near the body.
the focus that brings along the beneficial results (or delete-
Although the history of the “lucky” rabbit’s foot is difficult to
rious results in the case of an object considered unlucky).
nail down, it is generally agrees that it became popular in
In any case, objects like the rabbit’s foot have enjoyed per-
America near the turn of the twentieth century. Of course, if
sistent popularity over the centuries.
the rabbit’s foot is lucky, by extension, the converse is also true, and the absence of a rabbit’s foot can bring an end to
The rabbit itself is generally imbued with a certain amount
good fortunes. Although it is not clear why, throughout the
of superstition and symbolism. Rabbits tend to represent
ages, people have had the experience that carrying various
fertility. European Celts held rabbits to be sacred because
kinds of objects has seemed to bring them good luck (or in
they spent so much time underground; a sign they were in-
some cases bad luck). Perhaps the object is a reminder that
habited by numina, or underground spirits.
The Origin of the Rabbit’s Foot
These traditions were not marred much by the onset of
Considering a rabbit’s foot lucky is an ancient tradition in
other more prominent religions like Christianity. Even in
much of the world. At least as far back as the 600 (seventh
the strongly Catholic Ireland of the Middle Ages, there were
century) BCE, the rabbit was a talismanic symbol in Afri-
still superstitious beliefs regarding fairies or the Tuatha De
ca, and in Celtic Europe, rabbits were considered lucky as
Danaan who resided underground. Gradually, as Christian-
well. Thus keeping a part of the rabbit was considered good
ity spread in Ireland, the old Gods of Celtic belief became
fortune, and a foot was a handy means by which to benefit
associated with hell. Rabbits were thought to have special
from the luck of the rabbit.
protective powers needed for residing underground. Thus the foot could be protection from evil spirits, and is even
Many of the beliefs associated with the luck of a rabbit’s foot
considered so today.
have to do with the types of religions practiced in regions
106
of Africa, Europe, and North and South America. Religions
Other ancient groups imbued the rabbit’s foot with specific
based on animism, the sense that spirits inhabited living
forms of luck. To the Chinese, it may be a symbol of pros-
things, attributed power to all kinds of objects that were
perity. The known proclivity for rabbits to reproduce quickly
once living. When spirits were thought to live in animals,
and breed often has been noted in numerous cultures past
plants, rocks, and water, then each thing had its own power.
and present. The foot can be carried by women who wish to
Rabbit’s Foot Accessories
Rabbit’s Foot Accessory
Left: Rabbit’s Foot Accessories
Right: Rabbit’s Foot Keychain
get pregnant, or who wish to enhance their sexual lives. Sex-
hunting. In these cases, the superstition hinges on wishing
uality in general is also related to the wish for abundance,
for good luck in a variety of situations where the outcome
fertile crops, and good weather.
is unsure.
It’s sometimes hard to trace the exact superstition associ-
Some traditions of how to collect the foot state that it only
ated with certain groups of people that might hold or carry
lucky when taken from cross-eyed rabbits living in grave-
a rabbit’s foot. They are thought lucky for gamblers. Actors
yards. On the night of a full moon,the collector must shoot
may believe that they will ensure good performances and
the rabbit with a silver bullet. Further, only the left hind foot
rave reviews. Travelers carry them for safe travels, and
is lucky in many traditions.
hunters sometimes wear one as a necklace for good luck in
107
02
03
Rabbit’s Foot Keychain
Why a Rabbit’s Foot is Considered Lucky Rabbit’s Foot in European culture In Europe, the tradition of carrying the foot of a rabbit probably stems from ancient totemic beliefs that humans descended from animals, and particular tribes had their origins in specific species. A tribe worshiped its animal ancestor, and carried parts of that animal as protective totems. According to the history, the Celts, by around 600 B.C., are known to have associated rabbits with good fortune- the whole rabbit, not just the foot. Based on the Celtic folklore, the fact that rabbits lived in burrows deep underground
110
meant that they were in direct communication with the gods and spirits of the underworld. From here, it isn’t clear whether this contributed to the very modern practice of the lucky rabbit’s foot that popped up around the turn of the twentieth century in America. These Celtic beliefs did evolve somewhat, carrying over into certain other European cultures. For instance, in the 16th century, there is a work by Reginald Scot that mentions that a good way to ease the pain of arthritis was to carry around a rabbit’s foot. It’s possible this was then blended with aspects of African American folk magic. Or, it may be that the specific lucky rabbit’s foot tradition simply came from
Rabbit’s Foot Keychain traditions in the African folk magic that were unrelated to
teenth and early twentieth centuries, rabbit’s feet started
the European traditions associated with the rabbit. We just
being associated among the wider populace more exclu-
don’t have the hard documented evidence to be able to
sively with luck. Not just any foot would do, however. In an
discern the exact lineage. But, in either case, it is generally
example of counterintuitive magic, what folklorist Bill Ellis
thought that African folk magic played a role in the modern
terms “reverse elements,” the more inauspicious the cir-
tradition, and possibly is the most direct ancestor to the su-
cumstances surrounding the origins of the foot, the better.
perstition.
The left rear foot was favored, left being the ‘evil’ side. (Our word “sinister” derives from the Latin “sinistra,” meaning
Rabbit’s Foot in American culture
“left”. It was also once believed that left handedness was
In hoodoo, not referring to voodoo, which was an American
the result of the Devil and that lefties were predisposed to
mash-up of African folk spirituality and certain European
evil behaviors.)
traditions, a rabbit’s foot came to be a common item used for various things. Probably from this, around the late nine-
111
Ellis quotes an early advertisement that takes these reverse
bits feet being carried around to aid in fertility before they
elements to the level of the absurd, purporting that the own-
were associated so strongly with luck.
er was selling, And before you start smugly thinking the rabbit’s foot is …the left hind foot of a rabbit killed in a country church-
just yet another example of superstitious mumbo-jumbo
yard at midnight, during the dark of the moon, on Fri-
given credence to by our silly ancestors, remember that
day the 13th of the month, by a cross-eyed, left handed,
even today many buildings skip a 13th floor (or 4th in some
red-headed, bow-legged Negro riding a white horse.
East Asian cultures), many airlines don’t have a row 13 on their aircraft, and, if possible, a surprising amount of people
All of these elements, of course, were considered ominous
avoid holding important meetings, events, or trips on Friday
if not downright evil, but they made the rabbit’s foot even
the 13th. We’re more superstitious than we’d like to admit
more potent as an agent of good.
even today, and that, knock on wood, is unlikely to change any time soon.
Another characteristic of the rabbit that probably made it such a widespread symbol of luck is its well-known and prodigious breeding habits. Indeed, there are references to rab-
112
Rabbit’s Foots in Street Market
113
Rabbit’s Foots in Street Market
114
The charm in North American culture As mentioned earlier, the belief in North American folklore may originate in the system of African-American folk magic known as hoodoo. A number of strictures attached to the charm that are now observed mostly in the breach: First, not any foot from a rabbit will do: it is the left hind foot of a rabbit that is useful as a charm. Second, not any left hind foot of a rabbit will do; it must have been shot or otherwise captured in a cemetery. Third, at least according to some sources, not any left hind foot of a rabbit shot in a cemetery will do: the phase of the moon is also important. Some authorities say that the rabbit must be taken in the full moon, while others hold instead that the rabbit must be taken in the new moon. Some sources say instead that the rabbit must be taken on a Friday, or a rainy Friday, or Friday the 13th. Some sources say that the rabbit should be shot with a silver bullet, while others say that the foot must be cut off while the rabbit is still alive. Fourth, according to still more sources, not just any left hind foot cut off a live rabbit shot with a silver bullet in a cemetery during a full moon on a rainy Friday the 13th will do; the marksman must also be cross-eyed.
115
chapter
10
Four-leaf Clover The four-leaf clover, or shamrock, is thought of as a good
four-leaf clovers.Clovers can have more than four leaves:
luck charm in part because of its rarity in nature. It is an
The most leaves ever found on a single clover stem (Trifo-
uncommon variation of the common, three-leaved clover.
lium repens L.) is 56 and was discovered by Shigeo Obara
In the early days of Ireland, the Druids believed that they
of Hanamaki City, Iwate, Japan, on 10 May 2009. Five-leaf
could see evil spirits coming when they carried a shamrock,
clovers are less commonly found naturally than four-leaf
or three-leaf clover, giving them a chance to get away in
clovers; however, they, too, have been successfully cultivat-
time! They thought four-leaf clovers offered magical pro-
ed. Traditionally children have been told that a five-leaved
tection, and warded off bad luck. It has been estimated that
clover is even luckier than a four-leaved one. Some four-leaf
there are approximately 10,000 three-leaf clovers for every
clover collectors, particularly in Ireland, regard the five-leaf
four-leaf clover; however, this probability has not deterred
clover, known as a rose clover, as a particular prize.
collectors who have reached records as high as 160,000
Four-leaf Clover Display
118
The Origin of the Four-leaf Clover The four leaf clover is a universally accepted symbol of good luck with its origin ages old. According to legend, Eve carried a four leaf clover from the Garden of Eden. Referring to Irish beliefs, the superstition stems from Druid priests who used the shamrock for healing the sick, in wor-
cultural life of early peoples. White clover in particular was held in high esteem by the early Celts of Wales as a charm against evil spirits. Clover Science and Technology. N.L. Taylor, 1985.Druids held the four-leaf clover in high esteem and considered them a sign of luck. In 1620, Sir John Melton wrote:
ship rituals and to ward off evil. Prior to this, St. Patrick had found the three-leaf clover to be an extraordinary plant. In ancient Egypt, when a couple got married it was traditional to give them a four-leaf clover which was a blessing of their union and a representation of their undying love for one another.The clovers also occupied a position in the
If a man walking in the fields find any four-leaved grass, he shall in a small while after find some good thing. The mystique of the four leaf clover continues today, since finding a real four leaf clover is still a rare occurrence and omen of good luck.
Fresh Four-leaf Clover
119
Four-leaf Clover Display
Symbolization According to tradition, such leaves bring good luck to their finders, especially if found accidentally. In the meantime, each leaf is believed to represent something: the first is for faith, the second is for hope, the third is for love, and the fourth is for luck. In Irish tradition the Shamrock or 3-leaf
122
Clover represents the Holy Trinity: one leaf for the Father, one for the Son and one for the Holy Spirit. When a Shamrock is found with the fourth leaf, it represents God’s Grace. In addition, some of the beliefs surrounding the power of the four-leaf clover include the following: both children and adults would hang the four-leaf clover at home to ward off
evil, witchcraft and bad omens; A person who finds a four-
ing a four-leaf clover will be able to see fairies; One belief
leaf clover will meet a future lover on that same day. Some
states that you will only have good luck if the four-leaf clo-
people even go so far as to put the four-leaf clover in their
ver is kept out of sight and never passed to someone else.
shoes; Anyone who possesses a four-leaf clover will have
Another one states that if your give the four-leaf clover to
good fortune in any ventures they attempt; The four-leaf
someone else, your luck will double.
clover is a charm that protects against evil; Anyone wear-
123
St. Patrick’s Day Saint Patrick’s Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated annually on 17 March, the death date of the most commonly-recognised patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. With the tradition of the“wearing of the green” on St Patrick’s Day, the day is customary to wear shamrocks and/ or green clothing or accessories. The shamrock, which is the diminutive version of the Irish word for clover meaning simply “little clover” or “young clover”, refers to the young sprigs of clover or trefoil. It is known as a symbol of Ireland. However, people often confused the difference between a Shamrock and a Four-leaf Clover when celebrating Saint
Patrick’s Day. By definition, for a clover to represent the Trinity, it would have to bear 3 (and only 3) leaves. So for all
Photo Left
the good luck they allegedly bring, 4-leaf clovers technically
People in St.Patrick’s Day Parade
can’t be considered shamrocks, it is not in the sense that St. Patrick made the latter famous, at least.
Photo Middle People with St. Patrick’s Day costumes
But the foregoing does explain the ease with which mul-
Photo Right
tiple “shamrock” representatives are accepted. A candi-
People with St. Patrick’s Day accessories
date’s trifoliate leaf structure can override its family history, including geographical anomalies. For instance, some of the wood sorrels widely used in the U.S. as Irish shamrocks are of South American or Central American heritage, which hardly conjures up images of the grassy slopes of the Irish countryside.
125
Identification of a Real Four-leaf Clover
ter Clover, (Marsilea Quadrifolia and Marsilea Polycarpa), or
Real, genuine four-leaf clovers come from the White Clover
Oxalis (Oxalis deppei or Oxalis tetraphylla) plants that pro-
plant, trifolium repens, considered to be the Original Sham-
duce all four leaves. Another way of identifying a real four-
rock. You may find others selling leaves as four-leaf clovers
leaf clover is that the fourth leaf is usually smaller than the
that are not genuine. These are actually Pepperwort or Wa-
other three leaves.
× ××
Trifolium Repens
Marsilea Quadrifolia
126
Oxalis Deppei
Marsilea Polycarpa
Fresh Four-leaf Clover
127
Four-leaf Clover Display
Four-leaf Clover Display
Fresh Four-leaf Clover
Four-leaf Clover on the river
128
Four-leaf Clover Display
Four-leaf Clover Display
Fresh Four-leaf Clover
Fresh Four-leaf Clover
129
chapter
11
Nazar Boncugu The nazar boncugu, also known as the Evil Eye Stone is a
you believe has magic powers to protect you or bring you
talisman meant to ward off evil and provide protection to
good luck.Turkish people believe that it absorbs bad ener-
the wearer in all aspects of their life. The word “nazar” is
gy coming from evil eyes. In addition, It is a common sight
derived from the meaning of “sight” or “seeing”. In Turk-
in Turkey, Albania, Greece, Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt,
ish, it is called Munçuk. In Central Asia, during the ages of
Armenia, Iran, Afghanistan, Iraq and Azerbaijan, where the
Tengrism, people held similar superstitions like horseshoes,
nazar is often hung in homes, offices, cars, children’s cloth-
garlic, wolf’s tooth, dried thorn, lead, stones; but the crystal
ing, or incorporated in jewellery and ornaments.
blue eye has always been the most popular one. The most interesting is that it isn’t a folk thing or a rare sighting to see
A typical nazar is made of handmade glass featuring con-
someone wearing it, but it is a prevalent part of Turkish cul-
centric circles or teardrop shapes in dark blue, white, light
ture. Turkish talisman Nazar Boncugu, is an object which
blue and black, occasionally with a yellow or gold edge.
Tree decorating with Nazar Boncugu Cappadocia, Turkey
132
The Origin of the Nazar Boncugu
salt. This particular combination of minerals and metals is
The Turkish Nazar Boncugu is the figure of eye. It is a glass
believed to provide a shield from the forces of evil.
bead characterized by a blue glass field with a blue or black dot superimposed on a white or yellow center.
The Nazar Boncugu has the symbol of an eye worked upon it. The symbol of the eye is regarded as a potent amulet for
Historically old, the blue bead has gained importance as an
protection against evil forces in almost every culture of the
item of popular culture in Modern Turkey. The bead proba-
world like Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist and Christian.
bly originated in the Mediterranean and is associated with
Thus, in Turkey, you have an eye for an eye. It is believed
the development of glass making. Written documents and
that the Nazar Boncugu deflects the negative energy that
extant beads date as early as the 16th century BC. Glass
is being directed towards a person onto itself, thus dispers-
beads were made and widely used throughout the ancient
ing its powers. For its features, the Nazar Boncugu is blue in
world: from Mesopotamia to Egypt, from Phoenicia to Per-
color and the age-old Anatolian belief is that it is actually the
sia, and throughout the Roman imperial period.
blue color of the stone, which holds the real shielding power and absorbs the negative energy.
Horus’ Eye One of the evil eye symbols. Many cultures believe able to cause injury or misfortune for the person
People believes that the Evil Eye is a curse, given intentionally or unintentionally by someone else. From time imme-
This is not surprising since the people in many Mediterra-
morial, people, from gut feelings, we instantly become wary
nean nations ardently believe in the protective powers of
of strangers with greedy or mean eyes. We know from expe-
the blue color. That is why; front doors of houses in these
rience, that effusive praises should be taken with a pinch of
Mediterranean countries are painted blue to ward off evil
salt, for behind all the gushes, smiles and the adoring eyes,
spirits. The Nazar Boncugu is attached to anything and
the person is probably itching to wring your necks or stab
everything that, it is felt, will attract envy and greed. Thus,
you from behind. The Turks have devised the Evil Eye Pen-
you will find a Turkish man attaching the evil eye pendant in
dant to guard themselves from such not-so-well-meaning
front of his house or office, hanging it from the neck of his
people with their necessarily evil eyes.
newborn child, or his farm animals and even on his newly
at whom it is directed for reasons of envy or dislike. Nazar Boncugu is made to fight against the unfortune caused by evil eye.
acquired machinery. The Nazar Boncugu or the Turkish Evil Eye Pendant, which literally means the “evil eye bead�, is actually a stone bead, which is worn to protect oneself from evil looks. The stone is an amalgamation of molten glass, iron, copper, water and
133
02
Get Lucky
The History of Lucky Items
03
Nazar Boncugu souvenirs Athens, Greece
136
The Use of the Nazar Boncugu
evil wishes. No place of business or home is without one.
Legend said Nazar Boncugu is something who protects
They come in many styles, from simple to ornate. Usually,
you from “bad luck�. Bad luck translates into evil or harm
they are made of glass but also can be made of plastic.
wished upon you from another. What is more, there is no religious bar in the use of the evil The one who bestows the curse is said to look upon, and
eye pendant. Thus, Jews, Christians and Muslims alike, use
soon to be afflicted by a person with an evil look, and misfor-
this lucky charm. The Nazar Boncugu is still hand crafted
tune will come to those caught in the gaze. Nazar are often
using primitive means, by highly skilled glass workers who
given as gifts to friends who have just a baby, or moved into
are carrying on a 3000 year old craft. The pendant can be
a new house, though sometimes they are given to foreigner
worn in a necklace or a bracelet.
as protection during their stay in Turkey. Everywhere you go you will find people wearing the strange It was believed in the ancient times that Tengri Ulgen, god
amulet; earings, bracelets, necklaces, anklets, charms in all
of the skies in Central Asia, would sit in those skies and pro-
sizes adorn people, their homes, cars and even children in
tect the people from evil. It was for this reason that people
order to protect them from the Evil Eye. Majority of people
considered the colour of the blue skies to be sacred. When
do not leaves Turkey without purchasing a blue and white
a child is born, an evil eye is pinned to the garment on his or
nazar boncugu (evil eye charm), which can be found every-
her right back shoulder for protection from other people’s
where in Turkey.
137
Nazar Boncugu souvenirs Antalya, Turkey
138
139
Nazar Boncugu souvenirs Istanbul, Turkey
140
Nazar Boncugu souvenirs Istanbul, Turkey
141
The Popularity of the Nazar Boncugu The Nazar Boncugu is not just a Turkish tradition anymore. It is also the most popular souvenir. From small key rings to necklaces to large ceramic eyes to hang up in the home, they are all sold wherever tourism exists. Traditionally a circle or round sphere, it is dark blue with the shape of an eye in the middle. Stroll through the grand bazaar of Istanbul and you will lose count of the number of times you see it. Visit panoramic viewpoint in Cappadocia in Turkey and they hang off trees providing many perfect photo opportunities. The Making of Nazar Boncugu With the traditional technique, nazar boncugu (evil eye bead) making is primitive. It’s totally
In addition, Turks still consider and use Nazar Boncugu as a lucky item. Almost every Turkish person I know has one
hand made. Makers use a thick and a thin iron
to carry around with them or display in their home. I often
rod; and roll the base of the nazar bead on the
asked if they believe it will ward off bad luck and nine times
thick rod. This is the base. Makers will add the
out of ten, they just shrug their shoulders. It does not matter
white and the blue of the eyes with the thin rod.
whether it works, they just need it there, and much like a
Just these two rods are our tools. There is this yellow eye on our beads. After that, makers make the oxide of this yellow from a mixture of
child clings to a comfort blanket, the Nazar Boncugu provides peace of mind. It is said that when an evil eye cracks, it
zinc, metal and lead. I wonder if any chemist can
has done its job of protecting you and this belief dates back
make the same color, which is one of the secrets
to the origins of the Nazar Boncugu.
from the factory.
Now that evil eyes are popular as souvenirs, it is heart-warming to learn that not all of them are shipped in from cheap factories in China. Making the Turkish evil eye is an accepted master trade that stretches back over 3000 years. Men learned the trade from their fathers and will sit at sweltering hot furnaces to twist, shape, and color the glass into it.
142
Tree with Nazar Boncugu Cappadocia, Turkey 143
02
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Chapter 6 - Maneki-neko “Latest Lucky Cat trend in Japan.” Luckymanekineko.wordpress.com. Wibbeke, E. S. “Gestures around the World.” Shizuko, Mishima. “Manekineko: Japanese Lucky Cats.”
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Schumacher, Mark. “Maneki Neko: The Lucky Beckoning Cat.” Risteon, A. “My New Life in Asia.” “The Lucky Cat in Japan.” Japanya.co.uk. Tse, Holly. “5 Interesting Facts About Fortune Cats (Maneki Neko)”
Chapter 7 - Barn Stars Fooks, David. “The History of Pennsylvania’s Barn Stars and Hex Signs.” “The History of the Barn Star.” Tinntreasures.com. “Meaning Of Barn Stars And Meaning Of Barn Star Colors.” Jollieprimitives.com. “History and Meaning of Barn Stars.” Jollieprimitives.com. “History of the Barn Star in North America: Amish Barn Stars.” “Barn Stars in Bedford and Somerset Counties, Pennsylvania.” “Barn Dons Old Fashioned Stars.” “Pennsylvania Dutch Hex Signs: Hex Sign Symbolism & Their Meanings.”
Chapter 8 - Red Envelopes “The Legend of Chinese New Year Red Envelopes.” Culture-4-travel.com. Mack, Lauren. “Chinese New Year: Red Envelope.” Black, Branden. Levine, David. Oh, Jessica. and Wei, Alex. “Red Envelopes: Chinese Tradition.” “Red Envelope.” Traditions.cultural-china.com. Hanna, Michael. “The History of Red Envelopes” Williams, Beth. “Lai See…Lai Do? 12 Tips for Giving and Receiving Red Envelopes.” Hanna, Daniel. “Red Envelopes”
Chapter 9 - Rabbit’s Foot Panati, Charles. “Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things.” Ellis, Bill. “Lucifer Ascending: The Occult in Folklore and Popular Culture.” Harlan, Louis R. “The Booker T. Washington Papers.” Finson, Jon W. “The Voices That Are Gone: Themes in Nineteenth-Century American Popular Song.”
147
“Why is a Rabbit’s Foot Considered Lucky?.” Wisegeek.org. Treadwell, Matthew. “Why a Rabbit’s Foot is Considered Lucky.” Curio, Mojo. “The Rabbit Foot.” Saurin, Desai. “Lucky foot? Unlucky rabbit!.”
Chapter 10 - Four-leaf Clover Keenan, Susan M. “The Four Leaf Clover.” Bradley, David. “Five-leaf Clovers.” “What Makes Four-Leaf Clovers Lucky Anyway?.” Lucky-four-leaf-clover.com. Levitt, Steven D. “160,000 Four-Leaf Clovers?.” “Four-leaf Clover Superstition.” Psychiclibrary.com Beaulieu, David. “Irish Shamrocks and 4-Leaf Clovers.” Lee, Jolie. “St. Patrick’s Day traditions explained.” “Facts about Real Four Leaf Clovers.” Fourleafclover.com.
Chapter 11 - Nazar Boncugu “Origins of the Evil Eye.” Turkeyforyou.com. “Protective Powers of Turkish Evil Eye Pendants.” Turkeyforyou.com. Marchese, Ronald T. “The Fabric of Life: Cultural Transformations in Turkish Society.” “Nazar Boncugu or Turkish Evil Eye Bead Amulets.“ Nazarboncugu.com. Curio, Mojo. “The Evil Eye.” Jacobs, Rabbi Louis. “Evil Eye in Judaism.” “Evil Eye Beads: Nazar Bonjuk.” Turkeytravelplanner.com. Sayin, Natalie. “The Blue Evil Eye in Turkey : Good Luck Charms and Souvenirs.” “The Blue Charm of Nazar Boncugu.”
148
149
02
index
A
Asian
Asibikaashi
15
Althaea
Amish
36
53 78
B
Buddhism 16
Blacksmith
Britain
Blue-glazed
Belief
Bed
53, 61
53 53
60 62
Bobtail
65
Beckoning Cat
Bussinesses
C
China
65 66
16, 91
Christian
Charm
21
23
Chippewa
Craftsman
46 48
Contradiction
60
Charm
Color
Chinatown
Civil War
Creativity
D
Dreamcatcher
Diameter
Dunstan
Denstination
Decoration
Doorway
Dutch
E
Ethnographer
Ends-pointing-down 60
Edo
Energy
F
Feng Shui
61 61, 73 74 77, 78 85 35
37 53 62 72 77
78 36
73 85 16
151
Japan
65, 91
K
Korea
15, 91
77
Karma
85
Keychain
Koban
73
L
Ladder
21
Fortune cat
Five-pointed Star
65
Farming
Fertility
88
16 65
Fortune
G
Gold
Ghost
21
Lebanese
Green
22
Legend
45, 46
Grapevine
Lakota
46
Germany
Life-size
Gotokuji
66
Lucky cat
Gesture
70
Love
Golden cat
M
Monks
German-American
Middle East
Grow
Mandeanism
H
Hamsa
Menorah
Hoop 35, 42, 48
Middle-age
Horshoes
Maneki-neko
Hooves
Happy cat
Hex Sign
Health
I
Iron
Intelligence
Illness
Illusion
16
48 53, 78
74
85 28
51
Judaism
Jewish
53 65
73 17 27 27
27 62 65
Money cat
Merchant
78, 88
Mascots
Merchants
Multi-dimension
Metal
Mother
Manetary gift
N
Native Americans
Nightmare
19th Century
85
61
J
77
27
65
51
72
72, 73 78
02
77
27 27
65 65 66 71 78
84 85 91
42 88
35
O
36, 44
Spirits
65
Supermarket
36, 53, 66, 78
T
Thailand
28
Takrut
29
Triangle
51
Trandition
65
Toenail
66
Talisman
U
“U” Shape
Upright-paw
United States
V
Villages
Variation
Virginia
W
Western
Willow
Witch
Welcoming Cat
Wedding
Ojibwe
Ornaments
Origin
P
Pillars
Persian
Partially
Piggy bank
Prosperity
Paw
70, 72
Prosperity
Pennsylvania
Protection
Push
Q R
72 77, 88
85
85
Amulets 01 23
Reward
Rainbow
61
Relationship
72
Restaurant
74
Red Envelopes
91
S
Superstition
St. Patrick’s Day
Star
Sleeper
String
Scandinavia
Seven-age
Samura
Spaniards
Scarf
21, 53
23
22
X Y Z
73, 91 74
17 17 21 35
51 65 59 65 77
29 51 77 21, 70 48 62 65
91
Amulets 01 Amulets 01 Zoroastrian
29
35 48 53 61
66 70
73
03