Stuff To Blow Your Mind The Artifact Redux: The Hand of Glory
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May 7, 2025 Dive into the dark mystique of the Hand of Glory, an eerie artifact shrouded in legend and superstition. Discover how this mystical hand is tied to the mandrake plant, weaving a tale of magic through the ages. Unravel its connection to theft and evasion, as a unique specimen from the Whitby Museum reveals its sinister history. Explore themes of protective magic versus darker intentions, and uncover the chilling secrets behind this captivating object.
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The Hand of Glory's Magical Powers
- The Hand of Glory is a magic candle holder made from the preserved hand of an executed criminal.
- When lit, it was said to render people motionless or open locks for thieves.
Thief's Use of the Hand of Glory
- Stories describe thieves disguising as old women to light the Hand of Glory in inns to rob patrons.
- A spell was recited to command sleep and guide thieves to their loot.
Hand of Glory and Mandrake Connection
- The term 'Hand of Glory' likely arose from a corruption of 'mandragore,' the mandrake plant with magical properties.
- Mandrake was believed to stupefy or induce sleep and had associations with thieves and magic.
