The mystery of the Nazar Boncuk: why the Turkish

From keychains in Haringey to storefronts in Hackney, you can't walk through a Turkish neighborhood in London without seeing the deep blue and white symbol known as the Nazar Boncuk, or the "evil eye bead." It is on babies' clothes, hanging in taxis, embedded in jewelry, and decorating homes.

But what exactly is it, and why is it such an omnipresent symbol in Turkish culture?

What is the "Evil Eye" (Nazar)?

In Turkish belief, the "evil eye" (Nazar) refers to a malevolent glare or stare that can cause harm, misfortune, or injury to the person it is directed at. It is believed to be caused by envy, jealousy, or even unconscious ill-will from others. The person giving the evil eye may not even intend harm, but their strong admiration or jealousy can inadvertently cast a negative energy.

This belief is not unique to Turkish culture; it is found across many cultures in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and beyond.

The Nazar Boncuk: A Shield Against Malice

The Nazar Boncuk is the amulet designed to protect against this malevolent gaze. It is typically a flattened bead or ornament made of dark blue, white, light blue, and black glass, resembling an eye.

The idea is that the Nazar Boncuk itself "looks back" at the evil eye, deflecting its harmful energy and absorbing the negative intentions. When a Nazar Boncuk cracks or breaks, it is believed to have done its job—it has absorbed a powerful evil eye directed at you, and now you need a new one for continued protection.

Where You Will See It in London

Turkish Londoners incorporate the Nazar Boncuk into almost every aspect of life:

• For Babies and Children: Often pinned to clothing or strollers to protect the most vulnerable.

• In Homes: Hung by the front door, in windows, or in prominent rooms to guard the household.

• In Businesses: New shops in Enfield and restaurants in Westminster often display a large Nazar Boncuk for good fortune and protection from envious competitors.

• As Jewelry: Worn as necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.

• In Cars: Hung from rearview mirrors for safe travels.

It is a deeply ingrained cultural reflex, a common sight from Barnet to Southwark, offering peace of mind and a sense of protective tradition.

The Islamic Perspective: A Point of Discussion

While the Nazar Boncuk is undeniably a powerful cultural symbol for many Turkish people, its use often sparks discussion within Islamic theology.

From an Islamic standpoint, the concept of Nazar (the evil eye) is acknowledged in various Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said, "The evil eye is real." This means that the impact of envious or malicious glances is indeed believed to exist.

However, the traditional Islamic solution to protection from the evil eye does not involve amulets or charms. Instead, Islam emphasizes seeking refuge and protection directly from Allah (God) through:

• Recitation of specific Quranic verses (Ayat al-Kursi, Al-Falaq, An-Nas).

• Making supplications (Du'a) and relying solely on God's power.

• Trusting in Allah's decree (Tawakkul).

Many Islamic scholars and devout Muslims view the use of amulets like the Nazar Boncuk as a form of Shirk (associating partners with Allah in matters that belong solely to Him), which is strictly forbidden in Islam. They argue that placing trust in an object for protection, rather than in God alone, goes against the core tenets of monotheism.

Therefore, while the Nazar Boncuk remains a cherished cultural icon for its historical and protective symbolism within Turkish society, it presents a theological divergence for those who adhere strictly to Islamic teachings on seeking divine protection.

Culture, Faith, and Identity

The Nazar Boncuk stands at the fascinating intersection of ancient cultural belief and religious doctrine. For many, it is a harmless symbol of identity and a connection to heritage. For others, particularly within observant Islamic communities, it represents a practice that should be approached with caution, with an emphasis on prayer and direct reliance on God for protection.

It is a conversation that continues in Turkish homes and communities across London, reflecting the rich and sometimes complex interplay of culture and faith.