Ethiopian Magic Scroll (Ketab) & Scroll Amulet Box & Necklace

This silver alloy scroll case is of tubular form. One end pulls open to reveal the original, tightly-rolled amulet or ‘magic’ scroll on vellum (animal skin). The scroll case is decorated with bands of filigree and applied plaques.

The case is suspended from a silver alloy chain.

The chain is decorated with two roundels each decorated with a flower motif, plus four blue glass trade beads. from the underside of the scroll case multiple chains are suspended and each of these terminate with a red glass trade bead and a bell-like finial.

The scroll or ketab contained in the case is a long scroll on vellum is a ‘healing’ scroll. It comprises a diagram at the top and then many subsequent lines of Ethiopian ge’ez script. The diagram is most probably a net of Solomon, designed to trap demons.  Such an image was used in a scroll to ensnare an evil spirit or demon that might have possessed the owner. Other, more obscure symbols are at the base of the scroll. Both sets of diagrams, top and bottom, are bordered by magical text in red ink – red is used to prevent the demon from escaping. The reverse has several lines of ge’ez script in black and red script, as well as some indistinct diagrams.

Some sources mention that the length of the scrolls were cut to the exact height of the patient.

The power of such scrolls comes not necessarily from reading them but from the mere possession of them. Usually they were produced for clients by a lay ‘priest’ called a dabtara, who was trained in the magical arts. Such scrolls are non-canonical and possibly have been incorporated into Ethiopian Christian practice from Ethiopia’s Islamic neighbours for whom the wearing of talismans was commonplace. The purpose of the scrolls was to exert influence upon harmful demons and spirits as well as invoking the assistance of helpful angels and useful constellations of the stars. The Ethiopian Church has tended to ignore the use of magic scrolls; it certainly has not endorsed the practice.

Such scrolls were strictly personal. They named the client for whom they were commissioned and were specific to his or her ailment.

The necklace and scroll here all show significant age. The necklace is complete.

 

Above: An early photograph of a man from the Harar region wearing a similar scroll case necklace.