Folk traditions attribute power to certain magic words and charms. For example, it is believed that one can consistently win at games of chance by blessing the dice or cards while reciting the incantation: “Contra me ad incarte cla, a filii a Eniol, Lieber, Braya, Braguesca.” Other charms include saying “Och, och” before sleep to … Read more
Various folk traditions attribute magical properties to perfumes. For instance, some believe that perfumes made from linseed and fleawort seeds or violet and acanthus roots can grant knowledge of the future. Other traditions suggest that perfumes made with calamint, peony, mint, and palma Christi can ward off evil spirits and harmful ghosts. Burning the bones … Read more
Haltias (haltija) are supernatural beings in Finnish mythology. They are often associated with natural features like forests, rocks, and bodies of water. The term can also refer to the spirit of a place, similar to a genius loci in Roman belief. In some traditions, haltias are described as guardians or protectors of specific locations. They … Read more