Ngeeruvused

Ngeeruvused, also known as *ngeeruv* or *ngeeruvus*, refer to a traditional Estonian folk custom involving the creation and use of protective charms or amulets, often made from natural materials. These items were believed to offer spiritual or physical protection against harm, illness, or misfortune. The practice stems from pre-Christian Baltic and Finnic pagan beliefs, where nature and its elements were considered sacred and imbued with power.

The term *ngeeruvus* (plural of *ngeeruv*) comes from the Estonian word *ngeeruv*, meaning "protection" or "warding off." These charms were typically crafted from materials like wood, stone, clay, or plant fibers, often shaped into symbolic forms such as knots, spirals, or animal figures. Some were inscribed with protective runes or magical symbols, while others were simply carved or woven for their inherent symbolic meaning.

Ngeeruvused were used in various contexts, including household protection, safeguarding livestock, or ensuring safe travel. For instance, wooden charms might be hung above doorways, while small stone amulets could be carried on the person. In some cases, they were buried near fields or homes to ward off negative influences. The practice persisted alongside Christianization but gradually faded with the spread of organized religion and modernization.

Today, ngeeruvused are studied as part of Estonian folklore and cultural heritage. Some modern practitioners revive the tradition for symbolic or decorative purposes, blending historical customs with contemporary craftsmanship. While their original magical significance is often interpreted metaphorically, they remain a fascinating example of how ancient beliefs shaped everyday life in pre-modern Baltic societies.