Apotropaic

From the Greek word apotropaios, it is a mark or symbol with power to repel evil spirits, influences, witches or plain bad luck. Originally a large eye or eyes on Greek drinking vessels called kylikes (eye cups) they stopped dangerous spirits from entering the drinker’s mouth with the wine. On Ethiopian Crosses circles are apotropaic “protective eyes” that bring personal blessings and deflect misfortune, evil forces, enemies, harm and the “evil eye.”