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Maljo: The Trinidadian Belief in the Evil Eye
In Trinidad and Tobago, maljo—often described as the evil eye—is a deeply rooted cultural belief that blends superstition, spirituality, and everyday caution. This belief, which might sound mysterious or mythical to some, is a significant part of Trinidadian identity, as real as the tropical sun.
What is Maljo?
At its core, maljo refers to the idea that a look of envy, admiration, or ill will—intentional or accidental—can bring misfortune, sickness, or harm to someone or something. This belief, found in various cultures and known as mal de ojo in Spanish, fi in Yoruba, and ntadidi je disu in Kikongo, underscores our shared human experience.
A Classic Example: “I hear them say how my donkey grows, it seems like they want to give it maljo. The whole thing is through jealousy, because they want to buy me donkey from me.”
This old saying captures the heart of the belief—envy can bring about unseen harm.
Jealousy and Maljo
In Trinidad, owning something valuable—like a new car, a stylish outfit, or even a thriving garden—can make you a target for maljo. For instance, if you bought a shiny new car and got into an accident shortly after, some might say, “Yuh didn’t take it to Mount St. Benedict for a blessing, so somebody give yuh maljo!”
Picture of Mount Saint Benedict Trinidad.
Jealousy is often seen as the driving force behind maljo, and precautionary steps are taken to ward off its effects.
How Do You Know If It’s Maljo?
One traditional method involves using a twig from the escobilla plant. If the twig wilts when placed near an afflicted child, it’s believed the child has been touched by maljo. Another belief states that maljo always returns to the sender, emphasizing the importance of keeping one’s heart and intentions pure.
Cultural Roots and Crossovers
Trinidad’s rich cultural tapestry means maljo isn’t isolated—it blends with African, European, and Indigenous traditions. Characters like lagahoo and soucouyant echo European folklore, while practices like using plants and prayers for protection have strong African roots.
Interestingly, mental health and superstition sometimes overlap in local terminology. Terms like malkadi (epilepsy), madness (folie), and maljo exist side by side, each carrying its cultural weight and interpretation.
Treating Maljo: A Ritual of Protection
Belief in maljo comes with its remedies. One common practice involves:
- Placing a branch of sweet broom in a glass of holy water.
- Making the sign of the cross.
- Reciting prayers, sometimes in Spanish.
- Gently striking the afflicted person three times with the branch.
“Elle pu couper maljo” translates to “She has Spanish prayers” and indicates someone skilled in breaking the curse.
More Than Just Superstition
Whether you see maljo as folklore, spiritual truth, or psychological symbolism, it remains a significant part of Trinidadian identity. It’s a reminder of the power of intention—good and bad—and the importance of community care and spiritual well-being.
So next time someone compliments your new car or your adorable baby, don’t forget to say, “Touch wood!”—you never know who might be watching.
Have you or someone you know ever experienced maljo? Share your stories in the comments below or tag us on social media—we’d love to hear from you!
Source: Winer, L. (2009). Dictionary of the English/Creole of Trinidad & Tobago. McGill- Queen’s University Press.
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