Invocations & Affirmations

In the early 1900s archaeologists discovered 20,000 fragments of ancient Bablylonian clay tablets dated as far back as 668 BCE. About 1,000 of these contained incantations and remedies used in the service of medicine and natural science.

At that time, medical treatments fell under the purview of priests because all aspects of human life were considered subject to the whims of the gods. Sickness could only be cured by praying to benevolent divinities, or asking mercy of evil spirits.

These Babylonian incantations varied widely in both purpose and procedure. Some benefitted humans, others animals. Some were meant to sanctify the home, others aimed to protect crops. A good number of incantations accompanied the use of specific herbs. Others required the tying and untying of knots. Some spells were carved onto amulets which, when worn, provided constant protection.

The invocations presented below were inspired by these ancient Babylonian tablets. After reading hundreds of surviving examples I identified the four most sought after blessings:

꩜ safety in one's own home

꩜ good health

꩜ protection from malignant forces

꩜ requests for good fortune

From these ancient - yet surprisingly universal - sentiments, I crafted the following four affirmations and illustrated each with my own original art.

I can't promise magical results, but I do hope they bring happiness to you and beauty to your home.

Stephanie Hoover