Olá pessoal! Today, I want to talk about a folk aspect of Portuguese culture that intertwines belief, tradition, and a touch of mysticism – Quebranto. If you’re superstitious, you’ll need to know about this.
What is it?
Now, what exactly is “Quebranto“? In simple terms, quebranto is a folk belief that describes a state of imbalance or affliction believed to affect individuals, particularly children. This is deeply ingrained in Portuguese culture, particularly in rural communities. The imbalance is often attributed to envy or negative energy directed towards the person, disrupting their well-being. This negative energy is also known as mau olhado (evil eye).
Another interpretation relates to the effects of praise or compliments directed at a child, which, according to popular belief, can also lead to quebranto. While not always labelled as quebranto, this phenomenon adds another layer of complexity to the folk beliefs surrounding children’s well-being.
Growing up with a blend of Irish and Portuguese heritage, I’ve heard about some superstitions and fairy stories.
What happens?
From a practical standpoint, “Quebranto” is often associated with symptoms such as fussiness, crying, lack of appetite, and general discomfort in infants and young children. When a child exhibits these signs, it’s not uncommon for parents or caregivers to seek the help of traditional healers, known as “curandeiros,” who specialize in addressing such afflictions.
Curandeiros
These curandeiros employ a variety of rituals and remedies aimed at “quebrar” (to break) the quebranto. Furthermore, aims to restore balance to the affected individual. These rituals can vary widely. They range from prayers and blessings to the use of herbs, eggs, or other symbolic objects. These are believed to possess protective or cleansing properties.
In regards to children, the Cinco Saimão amulet is often used to protect children from evil spirits.
Curandeiros
While it’s easy to dismiss folk beliefs like “quebranto” as mere superstition, it’s essential to recognize the cultural significance. These beliefs offer insight into a collective worldview shaped by centuries of tradition, folklore, and shared experiences.