The evil eye dates back over 5,000 years, with some of the earliest examples found in Mesopotamian artifacts like amulets and inscriptions. It was deeply ingrained in Egyptian culture, where it appeared in hieroglyphs and was linked to the Eye of Horus, a symbol of protection, healing, and well-being. The Greeks and Romans also believed in the power of the evil eye, viewing it as a force capable of causing misfortune, particularly toward individuals enjoying success, beauty, or good fortune.
As the concept evolved, the evil eye became a widespread belief across Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian cultures. Jewish texts describe the evil eye as a harmful gaze, and the Talmud offers guidance on how to avoid attracting it. In Hinduism, the concept of "Drishti" is similar, referring to the impact of negative thoughts or envy on a person's well-being.
The spread of the evil eye symbol can be attributed to trade routes and cultural exchanges throughout ancient civilizations. In the Mediterranean region, especially in Turkey and Greece, it became common to use charms known as nazar—blue glass beads resembling eyes—as protective talismans. These beads were hung in homes, vehicles, and businesses to guard against misfortune. Today, the evil eye remains a powerful and widely recognized symbol, integrated into jewelry and fashion worldwide, blending ancient beliefs with modern spirituality.