Crafts class at library to make ‘God’s Eye’

A symbol used an ancient American peoples will be the focus for an upcoming craft class at Madison Public Library.

The God's Eye class on Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. is free.

“God’s Eye, or Ojo de Dios, is a symbol of power and a form of protection from the unknown,” adult services librarian Rachel Hooper said. “The four points of the God’s Eye represent earth, fire, water and air.”

This class on Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. is free and open to beginners who are at least 18 years old.

“We will learn how other cultures have used the Ojo de Dios,” Hooper said. “The Indians of Central and South American have used this as a symbol of power and a form of protection from their gods.”

The Huichol Indians also made and placed the God’s Eye on altars so their gods could have a watchful eye over people who prayed there. In addition, Christians around the world have used the God’s Eye. Some Christians believe the object represents the prayer, “May the eye of God be upon you.”

Tradition contends that individuals who make the God’s Eye trust that the object will pray for them or perhaps another person, frequently a child. The Ojo de Dios symbolically represents a prayer for health, fortune and longevity.

Susana Vizcarra has volunteered to teach this class, along with several others. “We see a great interest in multicultural classes,” Hooper said. “So far, her classes has been completely full.”

The God’s Eye craft, about the size of an 8.5-by-11 inch piece of paper, will have colorful yarn woven in various designs around Popsicle sticks. The library will provide materials.

“Participants can use their God’s Eye as decoration,” Hooper said. “Hopefully, they will spread their knowledge of the God’s Eye and how to make it so others can enjoy this craft.”

Registration is required and available by visiting hmcpl.org.

Madison Public Library’s address is 130 Plaza Blvd. Sarah Sledge is branch manager. For library information, call 256-461-0046 or send email to madison@hmcpl.org.

For background information about the God’s Eye, visit historicalfolktoys.com/catcont/6004.html.