Like most of North America, Canadians have a lot of superstitions, especially when it comes to good luck. There are some common daily practices that will bring anyone a hazel or rabbit’s foot or some sick horoscope-inspired black swan t shirt and cap combo. Canadians everywhere also carry around tiny red string in their pockets at all times since they’re so lucky it’ll be paid attention to even if they only choose to wear the string yesterday. More often than not, though, these talismans are discreetly hidden beneath clothing an always in reach. Except taweez – the pieces of paper with Islamic verses or blessings printed on them which serve as talisman for many Muslims.
A taweez in islam is defined as any object or talisman held to provide a supernatural power in favor of the individual wearing the amulet. Taweez are intended to protect and ward off evil, bring good fortune, bring peace and happiness and to remove impurity – all grave necessities deployed in particularly difficult situations by Muslims thanks to their growing needs.1 out of 3 Canadians uses it on a daily basis while in 1 out of 4 cases, they have entire collections of them. Taweez are usually made of paper, metal or stone, and can be as small as a key chain to as large as a floor mat. They are often seen worn around the neck with prayers written on them in Arabic. In some cultures they might also be worn on the wrist or head. Taweez are a common Shia tradition in Afganistan, Iran, Pakistan, Kuwait and Iraq. They have made an appearance in North America as ancient Shia refugees brought the religious obligation with them. Though they are mainly done by the women and kids, men too experience its benefits.
Muslim Canadians love wearing taweez to carry them through various aspects of their life. The religious texts can be translated into everyday phrases. Canada is home to over 2 million Muslims and many more conservative Islamic activists form all backgrounds find solace in these often sentimental symbols. “Taweez are in many places, from everywhere,” says Hussaed Hassan, a Toronto-based Muslim activist. “It’s like a safety blanket for them. “In the country’s major cities, conservative groups have in recent years placed taweez on buses, billboards and other public spaces. In Toronto this has led to controversy between Muslims and non -Muslims in the city. Some non-Muslims are disturbed by this practice and want to remove them while others want to keep them.
Taweez in islam is used not just by people of religion, many Canadians use it without knowing that. Although immigrants are a growing demographic in Canada, it is impossible to know exactly how or why they use taweez in daily life. Some Muslims use taweez to protect children from witchcraft and the evil eye. Some people also use it to ward off evil spirits, as well as a number of other purposes including warding off negative thoughts or feelings, attracting good luck and preventing disease. Since taweez is not necessarily known for being Islamic, some non-Muslims also purchase it.
It’s safe to say that many Canadians put their trust in taweez; talismans, luck charms and worry stones they use on a daily basis to get closer to their spirituality, away from man-made reality. Historically, talismans were used by marksmen before each run and athletes before competitions. to protect them from jinxes, ward off bad luck and bring them good fortune. Taweez can be found all over Canada in both the mosque and the home. It is important to understand that the taweez comes in various shapes and forms depending on each individual’s faith. Some come with amulets while others are made-up of paper or wood while some even come in a bottle!
