Lucky Charms of Somalia

Somalia is an overwhelmingly Sunni Muslim country whose charm tradition centers on Islamic protective practice. The evil eye (il-shayd) is the most feared source of misfortune, guarded against with Quranic recitations, blue beads, and black kohl applied to children. Tasbih prayer beads are carried universally. The hand of Fatima and Quranic amulet cases sealed in leather are standard protective jewelry.

The camel — the most important animal in Somali pastoral culture and the measure of all wealth — carries deep associations of abundance and divine favor. Incense (particularly frankincense from the southern coast) is burned to purify spaces and carry prayers. Poetry is the supreme art form of the Somali people, and specific poems function as verbal protective charms.