Image Details

Revue Biblique

MAGIC FROM EMMAUS. The drawing shown here is of an amulet discovered at the bath-town of Emmaus, where, according to Christian tradition, Jesus appeared to two of his disciples after his resurrection (Luke 24). The amulet is inscribed with an incantation in Aramaic intended to cure the bearer of problems of the head, muscles, phallus and ears. Note that the amulet also features a snake, which represents youth and healing and is often a symbol for Aesculapius, the god of healing.