The cultural legacy and modern evolution of the Evil Eye

Kuwaiti-Indian artist Zahed Sultan explores the historical and cultural significance of Al Ayn, a belief that an envious gaze can cause illness or misfortune.

The concept of Al Ayn, commonly known as the Evil Eye, dates back 5000 years. While its exact origins are uncertain, the belief permeates various cultures including those of Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Levant, and Greece.

The tradition has become deeply embedded in Islamic culture, where religious phrases like Mashallah serve to shift praise toward the divine to neutralize potential envy. Protective measures against the Evil Eye manifest in diverse forms across different societies. In the Ottoman Empire, people used blue glass ornaments called Göz Boncuğu to deflect envy. In the Levant, the Khamsa, a palm symbol, offers protection for women.

Architectural features like Mashrabiya wood screens in the Middle East break lines of sight to prevent jealous looks, while traditional Bedouin Sadu weaving uses geometric patterns to symbolically pierce the gaze. Sultan notes that the symbol has shifted into a modern fashion accessory and souvenir. This creates a contradiction where people wear items intended to ward off attention while simultaneously drawing more of it.

In the age of social media, Sultan suggests that the modern concept of protecting one's "vibes" mirrors the ancient desire to guard personal joy and prosperity against the judgment of others.