The Origin of the Legend of the Bell | CRATEX Abrasives

The mystical stories of the bell and its connection to the spirit world dates back to ancient times. These bells had carved images of various gods and goddesses and their purpose was to ward off evil spirits.

The Christianity kept the custom of church bells ringing during burial services as their purpose is to fright away evil spirits that lurk besides the deceased, waiting to capture the soul as it leaves the body. During great epidemics in the medieval times the bells were rung to clear the air of a vicious disease.

The spiritual or magical power of the bell came from a belief that, thanks to their hanging position, they were guardians of the passageway between Heaven and Earth, preventing the demons to pass through it.

Buddhism is also familiar with the concept of the "sacred" bell that drives away negative forces and drives in the positive ones. Bell was also tied around the foot of a sick child in some parts of Africa to protect the child, and ancient Jews wore bells tied to their clothes to keep the evil away.

The most common usage of the bell can be seen in shops or houses, hung above the entrances. It's also believed that it will prevent evil spirits from entering, but the function is a more practical one today – to warn the owner that someone (perhaps unwanted) has entered the premises.