The skandola (also sakin dola or sakin ḏ-ula,[1] literally "dwelling of evil" in Mandaic) is a ritual talismanicseal used by Mandaeans to protect against evil.[2]: 37
Description
The skandola is an iron ring with a chain attached to an iron knife. It is used as a sacred talismanic seal. It is used to seal graves and also newborn babies on their navels. During wedding ceremonies, a priest gives the skandola to the bridegroom. There are incised depictions of the following animals:[2]
