In this article, we will explore the origin and meaning of the Turkish idiom “nazar değmesin”.
Ever heard of the “evil eye” (called nazar in Turkish)? It’s a widespread cultural belief that someone or something can be negatively impacted by envy or excessive admiration. In Turkish culture, giving excessive praise (even when entirely sincere) can unintentionally attract misfortune or harm. The idea behind this belief is that envy, or even innocent admiration, can cast a shadow of negative energy over someone or something, potentially causing illness, accidents, or misfortune.
The phrase “nazar değmesin” literally translates as “may it not be touched by the evil eye,” and it is commonly spoken after giving praise or expressing admiration. By using this phrase, speakers express their positive intentions and seek to neutralize any unintended negativity or envy their words might attract. Let’s analyse this Turkish idiom.
Meaning of “Nazar Değmesin” and Usage
You can use “nazar değmesin” in Turkish immediately after complimenting someone or something. It signifies genuine goodwill, hoping that no envy or negative energy will spoil what has been admired. Here are several examples of this phrase in context:
- Bebeğin çok tatlı maşallah, nazar değmesin! (“Your baby is very cute, God bless; may they be protected from the evil eye!”)
- Yeni eviniz harika olmuş, güle güle oturun, nazar değmesin! (“Your new house looks wonderful; enjoy living there; may it be protected from the evil eye!”)
- İşlerin harika gidiyor, nazar değmesin, hep böyle devam etsin! (“Your business is doing great; may it be protected from the evil eye, and may it always continue this way!”)
- Bugün ne kadar şıksın, nazar değmesin! (“You look so stylish today; may the evil eye not touch you!”)
- Çok güzel bir araba almışsınız, kazasız belasız kullanın, nazar değmesin! (“You’ve bought a beautiful car; use it safely and without harm; may it be protected from the evil eye!”)
Grammatically, the phrase employs the imperative mood combined with a negative suffix in Turkish:
- Nazar: refers to the evil eye or envy.
- Değmesin: is derived from the verb değmek (“to touch” or “to affect”) and incorporates the negative imperative suffix -mesin, making it a strong command or wish that envy should never touch or affect.
Thus, “nazar değmesin” translates to “may envy not touch [you or it].”
Origin and Etymology of “Nazar Değmesin”
The belief in the evil eye, or nazar, is deeply entrenched across numerous cultures, particularly those in the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, and South Asia. Its origins trace back to ancient societies, with historical records indicating such beliefs as far back as ancient Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. This ancient belief holds that envy, particularly when intense or concealed, can manifest as tangible harm through mere observation or praise.
When you step into a Turkish home, you’ll almost always spot a vibrant blue charm known as the nazar boncuğu (🧿). This charm is not just a decorative item; it is considered a powerful protective amulet designed to repel envy and negative energies. Turks widely use this charm in their homes, vehicles, workplaces, and even as accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Wearing the nazar boncuğu is both a fashionable statement and a meaningful cultural practice, subtly safeguarding individuals from harm.
The Turkish term “nazar” originates from the Arabic word (نظر), meaning “glance,” “look,” or “gaze.” Over centuries, the term evolved and solidified within Turkish linguistic and cultural contexts, becoming an integral aspect of daily life and social interactions. Similarly, the verb “değmek” is of Turkic origin, meaning “to touch,” metaphorically illustrating how envy could potentially reach out and harm individuals or objects.
Equivalent of “nazar değmesin” in other languages:
- Arabic: ما شاء الله (Masha’Allah) – meaning “what God has willed,” used similarly to prevent envy.
- Greek: Να μη σε ματιάσω (Na mi se matiaso) – translates as “May I not cast the evil eye upon you.”
- Spanish: Que no le echen mal de ojo – means “May they not cast the evil eye upon it.”
- Hindi: नजर न लगे (Nazar na lage) – meaning “May the evil eye not touch.”
In a nutshell, “nazar değmesin” is a Turkish idiom deeply rooted to the Turkish culture. It symbolizes collective vigilance against envy, a reflection of positivity, generosity, and community mindfulness.
Next time you’re in Turkey and find yourself complimenting something beautiful, special, or praiseworthy, remember to include a heartfelt “nazar değmesin” to ensure your admiration remains purely positive, bringing only good energy and warmth to those around you!
To continue reading, discover the meaning behind “Eline Sağlık” in Turkish.