Some amulets from phoenician Malta

Abstract

Among the more interesting items belonging to the Phoenician-Punic period, are a number of amulets or charms. The value and importance attributed to these objects by the Phoenicians, was due to a deeply rooted superstitious belief that the daily hazards of existence were caused by a multitude of malevolent spirits, who permeated the universe and intervened in natural processes. They were imagined as hideous grimacing beings who, it was believed, could be exorcised by the magical power of amulets or by incantations written on small strips of papyrus. These were thought to possess the supernatural power to alter the course of events and to exert a benevolent influence in favour of the owner.