Barbara Black Koltuv is a clinical psychologist and a Jungian analyst who has studied biblical Hebrew for several decades. In her 40 years of practice she has learned that true healing is not possible without a deep spiritual connection. In this fascinating paperback filled with exquisite pictures of amulets, talismans, and magical jewelry, she focuses on the use of sacred objects in the Jewish tradition. She notes: "The injunction to keep the words of the Lord upon your heart — and to tie them on the doorpost and gates of your house — seems to give permission — even to demand — that people carry and surround themselves with a concrete connection to the one unseen, ever-present God. Thus, the encased prayer became an approved amulet that offered a concrete and real connection to God."
She sees the Ark of the Covenant as the first tribal amulet and goes on to include in this category the mezuzot found on Jewish doorframes and the prayer shawl and teffilin. All are used to give protection. Black writes about the use of amulets and talismans to ward off evil spirits of the middle world. She also examines the significance of the hamsa, or upraised hand; henna hand and foot painting; glass beads for protection against the evil eye, and the use of prayer cases.
