Amulets-Fetishes
In Africa, a person wears an amulet or a talisman for protection and to benefit from its magic powers.
It is likely that the world in which man lives, is neither perfect, nor is it predictable and amulets offer hope and answers.
Throughout history, man has worn amulets and continues to do so.
An amulet or talisman can be as simple as a stone found in nature. Bestowed with supernatural and mystical powers, they protect the wearer.
Amulets and talismans can be inscribed with magic script or can contain sacred texts. Both will benefit the wearer.
In Africa, both the diviner and the marabout commission different types of amulets for their clients. These may be in the form of a pendant, a ring, a waist belt or a bracelet and may be of silver, leather, metal or wood.
The African diviner also commissions fetishes in the form of figures, animals, reptiles or objects. These objects can be in metal, wood or materials that occur in nature. The supernatural forces in these objects will provide the diviner with guidance and answers.
The marabout on the other hand, differs from the diviner, as his studies are based on the Koran. It is he, who prepares elaborate sacred writings that are enclosed in amulets and talismans.
There is in the end, something that will never change and that is, the need for man to believe in the magic of an amulet, talisman or sacred fetish.