In a unique teaching that bridges archaeology and theology, Bible prophecy teacher Perry Stone unveiled the history and spiritual implications of ancient “incantation bowls”—pottery relics once used to trap demonic spirits. These mysterious bowls, dating from the 6th to 8th century (A.D.), originated in Mesopotamia, the cradle of civilization where some of the biggest biblical landmarks were, including the Tower of Babel and Abraham’s homeland.
“These were made of pottery and had incantations written by hand in a spiral form,” Stone explains. “They were turned upside down and buried at the entrance of a home to trap evil spirits.” The inscriptions, often written in Aramaic, featured spells or blessings, coupled with strange symbols meant to ensnare demons before they could enter a dwelling.
Breaking News. Spirit-Filled Stories. Subscribe to Charisma on YouTube now!
While captivating as artifacts, Stone stresses that these bowls are rooted in superstition, not Scripture. “These incantation bowls are not biblical anywhere in the Bible,” he states. “They are man-made superstitions… demons don’t live in bowls.”
Stone draws a sharp contrast between ancient folklore and biblical truth. He points to 1 Samuel 16, where David’s harp playing brought relief to Saul, who was tormented by a spirit, and Mark 16:17, where Jesus declares, “In My name, you shall cast out devils.”
“Music played properly can soothe the soul,” Stone adds. “But ultimately, authority over evil spirits comes through the name of Jesus and the Word of God.”
He warns against relying on objects, charms, or rituals, whether ancient or modern. “In Islam, the hand of Fatima is used to ward off the evil eye. Even some Jews and early Christians referred to ‘evil eyes.’ But these ideas aren’t the answer.”
Stone underscores that deliverance from demonic oppression is not found in relics, but in spiritual authority. He encourages believers to rely on prayer, Scripture and the name of Jesus. “If a person chooses to be free, it does not take any length of time whatsoever once they submit their will to the Holy Spirit,” he says. “You have authority to resist the devil, and he will flee.”
Though the object is historically valuable, Stone emphasizes its spiritual uselessness: “It’s a relic of man’s futile attempt to deal with spirits—without God.”
Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!
Stone’s ultimate message is clear: Jesus—not objects or traditions—is the key to spiritual freedom, “Please understand, if you are tormented by a spirit that is not from the Lord, you have authority in the name of Jesus to overcome it.”
As ancient superstitions fade, the eternal power of Christ remains. Whether battling spiritual darkness or facing fear, Stone reminds believers to cling to the one true source of victory: the name of Jesus.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
