Ana BeKo'ah Amulet - Name of 42 Letters, Silver Pendant Turquoise Beads 18th Century

925 Sterling Silver Replica

From The Israel Museum Collection

Persia 18th Century

Size: 3.4cm Diameter

A  Hebrew inscription contains the 42 initial letters of the prayer Ana Beko'ah, one of the ancient names of God.

In the middle, the letters לקי (lucky), initials of 'בראשית מט, יח) לישועתך קיוויתי ה). "I hope for your salvation, O Lord" Genesis 49:18.

Amulets were intended to guard their owners' families and property from natural disasters, spells, and evil spirits.  Some were used to heal sickness and cure infertility; others were meant to shield the traveler from peril, to promote success and bounty, and even to secure the affection of friends and lovers.