The power of the mind is grossly underestimated. Thought is a form of energy. Energy and matter are interchangeable under certain circumstances. Theoretically, if its full powers are released and directed, mind ought to be able to accomplish what most people would describe as miracles. Mind may need focal points to channel its vast powers. The greatest mental powers appear to be generated at a level either above or below normal, everyday consciousness…..Talismans and amulets dedicated to particular Orishas and Loas seem able, on occasion, to create real, external, objective, and desired benign effects. Quite how this happens still remains conjectural.
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| Ekeko's 'smoking' cigarettes |
A very popular amulet in Bolivia and Argentina represents the god Ekeko, traditional bringer of wealth and good luck. In some ways he resembles a cornucopia personified. He is regarded as a generous god of plenty, but, traditionally, he needs an offering before he will activate his benign, wealth-bringing powers on his worshipper’s behalf. Many of the Ekeko talismans available in Peru, Bolivia and Argentina have places where a banknote can be clipped. Ekeko also enjoys a cigarette. Many of his statues have his small, circular mouth open, ready and just the right size to take a lighted cigarette. In addition to bringing wealth to his followers, Ekeko accepts small offerings of grain in return for which he sends a good harvest. Traditionally, the statue should be taken home and set in a comfortable place of honour in order to bring Ekeko’s favour on the family. Smaller versions of him can be worn as pendants around the neck or carried on key rings.
Page 184
An African amulet from Tanganyika was made from a dog’s gallbladder. This making of amulets and talismans from animal sources was an integral part of the ancient African traditional beliefs that eventually syncretized with Christianity to form Santeria and similar religions. It was thought the power of the animal from whom the talisman was made would be encapsulated inside the talisman and would be available for the protection and success of the talisman wearer.
Talismans also related to varieties of age-old sympathetic magic. Strewing coins on the floor or on a tabletop was thought to attract wealth. ..
Page 187
Egyptian religion encompassed the belief that spirits could invade matrial objects and people, and these spirits were the generators both of illness and dream phenomena....It was believed that as long as the dead pharaoh's body remained more ar less in tact his spirit would retain the power to protect and guard his people.
Page 23
Modern nkisis ( in Candomble religion) are sometimes described as "power statues" and are thought of as embodying, or otherwise encapsulating, magical energy. they are used for divination, healing, and promoting success. Practitioners believe that their nkisis statuettes are in contact with paranormal forces. they are thought of as magical devices - something like the psychic equivalents of radio or TV receivers - through which very strong signals from the spirit world can reach the Candomble believer.
Page 100
Egyptian religion encompassed the belief that spirits could invade matrial objects and people, and these spirits were the generators both of illness and dream phenomena....It was believed that as long as the dead pharaoh's body remained more ar less in tact his spirit would retain the power to protect and guard his people.
Page 23
Modern nkisis ( in Candomble religion) are sometimes described as "power statues" and are thought of as embodying, or otherwise encapsulating, magical energy. they are used for divination, healing, and promoting success. Practitioners believe that their nkisis statuettes are in contact with paranormal forces. they are thought of as magical devices - something like the psychic equivalents of radio or TV receivers - through which very strong signals from the spirit world can reach the Candomble believer.
Page 100
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