Katadesmos

Katadesmos is a term derived from ancient Greek, literally meaning "binding" or "that which binds." In antiquity, it most commonly referred to love spells, curses, or binding rituals inscribed on small sheets of lead or clay, often rolled up or folded. These artifacts are also known as defixiones or tabellae defixionum.

The practice of creating and using katadesmoi was widespread across the ancient Mediterranean world, appearing in Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures. The inscriptions on these objects typically invoked supernatural forces, such as deities or spirits, to compel a specific person to perform an action or to inflict harm upon them. Common targets for katadesmoi included lovers, rivals in sports or business, and those accused of crimes.

The content of the inscriptions varied greatly but often included the name of the target, the desired outcome (e.g., to make someone fall in love, to prevent someone from speaking, to cause illness), and appeals to chthonic deities or magical entities. Archaeological discoveries have unearthed thousands of these objects, providing invaluable insights into ancient beliefs, social practices, and the darker aspects of ancient magic. The study of katadesmoi contributes to our understanding of religious practices, legal customs, and interpersonal relationships in the ancient world.