What is a Talisman: Lucky Charms and Protective Pendants

Why carry a talisman? Everyone benefits from a little luck every now and then. Discover the right lucky charm for you in this blog.

Is there one best Talisman definition? In general you could say that a talisman is any object you believe has the power to bring good luck. Part of how talismans do this is by protecting you from negativity. This is also why talismans are sometimes confused with amulets, which are protective charms. A talisman, on the other hand, attracts positive energy, so a true lucky charm!

Meaning: Talisman and Amulet

What does talisman mean? The word is derived from the Greek word telesma, which means “sacred object”. This refers to protecting or bringing good luck. The word Amulet comes from the Latin word amuletum, which means “way of protection”. Others say that the word is derived from the Latin word amoliri, which means “to turn away”.

So what is an Amulet, and what is the difference between an amulet and a talisman? Protection is the primary function of an amulet, meaning it keeps away bad juju, like black magic and bad intentions that come our way. Just like a talisman, it is usually a personal item that you carry with you. Think of it this way, amulets repel negative energies and talismans attract positive ones. Some objects even do both! Either one is great to carry with you to help you through your day.

Age Old Good Energy

The use of amulets and talismans has been around for centuries. For example in old Celtic religions, the rabbit’s foot or the breastbone of the chicken were popular lucky charms. A symbol of Christianity, many wear a cross as a sort of amulet or talisman. In Shamanistic Practices these traditional protectors and good luck charms are usually made of natural materials such as bones, shells, wood or herbs. A Four-Leaf Clover has long been an omen of good luck too!

Everyday Examples Talisman and Amulet

Sometimes you don’t realize that you have had a lucky charm for years. You have probably found a special feather, four-leaf clover or a nice coin or bought something that you felt an overwhelming need to buy. Such trinkets often seem like they’re worth nothing, but may actually bring you a wealth of luck. You may have held one of the following in your hands, but never thought about the meaning of your talisman or amulet.

Talismans:

• Gems and Fossils
• Lucky Buddha
• Worry Dolls
• Dreamcatcher

Gems and Fossils

When you picture a talisman, then you may not immediately think of stones and animal remains, however they could have just that luck effect on you! The exact effect of course differs per person and per specimen.

Lucky Buddha

In Buddhist symbolism, the Cheerful Buddha or Laughing Buddha stands for happiness. There is a misconception that you can’t buy a Buddha for your self, only as a gift for others. However, that’s not true at all, as long as you buy them with the right intention! Focus on the peace an joy you hope to attract and spread with him. Find out more about the Meaning of Buddha Figures Here.

Worry Dolls

These little lucky charms are great to help you sleep better. Tell them you worries and what’s bothering you, and your doll will make sure they disappear over night. You will sleep soundly and wake up without any worries. These Lucky Dolls are especially popular with children.

Dreamcatcher

Dreamcatchers are gatekeepers for your dreams. They keep nightmares and other bad energies away from you, which become tangled in the web and then burn with the first rays of the morning sun. Good dreams, on the other hand, slip down along the feathers and into your sleeping mind.

Amulets:

• Hamsa Hand
• Nazar Eye
• Horseshoe

Hamsa Hand

Popular throughout the middle east and south Asia, and found in almost every religion there, the exact origin of the Hasma Hand is a mystery. From The Hand of Fatima in Islam to the Hand of Miriam in Judaism, it always represents women who are examples of  strong motherhood and, as a result, it protects with maternal ferocity. You can read more about the Powerful Palm of the Hamsa Hand Here.

Nazar Eye

In Turkish this small blue eye is called Nazar Boncuk or Nazar Boncuğu. According to folk belief, wearing a Nazar amulet should protect you against the evil eye. Many people believe that it is particularly effective against malicious envy. Nazar eyes are blue because this color often symbolizes purity and honesty. Although it is often associated with Turkey, the amulet is found throughout the Middle East. Read More About The Evil Eye Here

Horseshoe

Often associated with good luck, Horseshoes are actually protective amulets! Many folklore traditions believed that the iron of a horseshoe warded off evil spirits and could even keep witches away. According to Catholic tradition St. Dunstan caused the Devil so much pain while replacing his shoes, that he vowed to keep his demons away from homes with a horseshoe nailed above the door. That’s an amulet with a lot of kick!

Finding the Right Charm

Now that you know the talisman’s meaning, you may be wondering, “What is my talisman?” First of all, you can ask yourself whether you are looking for a personal bodyguard or just plain old luck. You can also take into account what area of your life you need some help in. An angel pendant or some Amethyst are great to stimulate good spiritual energy for example. Most importantly you should choose your lucky charm by feeling, then you know for sure that you’re getting the energy you need! You could even try drawing a Tarot Card to choose a Tarot Inspired Amulet!

Check Out Our Assortment of Talismans

How to Make a Talisman

If you can’t figure it out, you can of course make your own talisman. For example, choose something that has sentimental value and attach it to a Gemstone Necklace with the properties that you’re looking for. Find some help Choosing the Right Gemstone Here. Maybe read more about the Tree of Life, Flower of Life, or Pentagram for inspiration when choosing symbols for a talisman.

Are You Feeling Lucky Yet?