The concept of the evil eye is found in many cultures and religions, spanning the globe from the Middle East to the Americas.  This superstition holds that a person possessing the evil eye can cause injury or even death to anyone they choose simply by gazing at them.  Prayer, manual gesturing, and even mirrors have been used to avoid being cursed.  More popular still are objects such as amulets, clothing, and jewelry that are decorated with stylized eyes.

One pervasive symbol used to protect against the evil eye is the Egyptian Eye of Horus.  According to at least one historian, the ancient Egyptians created the legend of Horus and his eye to have a positive myth and symbol powerful enough to counteract the evil eye.  This symbol, called Oudjat or Wedjat, was used by the Egyptians on the inside of coffins and temples as well as during funeral services.