Glossary

The entries selection comes from the book “Dictionary of Judaica” (2005), which was written by a group of authors led by Eva Kosáková . Entries were further processed by Jaroslav Kuntoš, Dana Veselská, Olga Sixtová, Michaela Scheibová and Lenka Uličná. The book can be purchased at our e-shop.

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Amulet

A means of protection that can occur in manuscript or printed form, less frequently as a pendant. Extant examples from Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia include amulets that protect the home and ones that protect women in pregnancy and childbirth, and shield newborn infants. Features of amulets include biblical texts and charms, the names of God and names of patriarchs and matriarchs. They are usually decorated with typical Jewish symbols, the most frequently occurring of which are the Shield or Star of David (Heb. Magen David) and the menorah. A small metal plate with protective inscriptions and symbols, most often an abbreviation of a divine name, often served as a personal amulet. Usually fairly rectangular in shape and several centimetres in size, it is designed to be worn around the neck. Personal amulets in the form of a stylized hand (Arab., hamsah) are relatively frequent, although this shape applies to a broader cultural sphere; it is, therefore, necessary to consider the content of the inscription and the meaning of the symbol.

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