Mutya, Anting-anting, and Agimat: What Is the Difference?
What is the difference between the anting-anting or agimat that can be bought in Quiapo or online, and the mutya that can be found in nature? How do they gain power? Can their power fade? And how do you choose the charm that is right for you?
2 Types of Anting-anting or Agimat
There are two types of anting-anting or agimat. The first one is the mutya. In folk belief, it comes from nature or from unseen beings such as diwata. It is not simply made or bought. Most of the time, a mutya is found by chance and only goes to the person who is meant to have it. For example, some stones found inside coconuts are believed by some people to be mutya.
The second type is the anting-anting or agimat that can be bought in Quiapo, online shops, or mystical stores. It may be made from a medallion, stone, plant, animal part, or another object that has been prayed over, blessed, or used in a ritual so it can have power.
How Do They Gain Power?
Some anting-anting need to be activated through prayer, ritual, orasyon, or proper use. Others need to be cared for and prayed over regularly so their power stays strong.
A mutya, on the other hand, is believed to already carry its own power, so it does not need to be activated like a regular agimat.
Can Their Power Fade?
There is a belief that the power of an anting-anting can weaken or disappear if it is brought to places or situations that do not match its energy, such as cemeteries, funerals, or gambling places. However, this still depends on where the agimat came from, how it was made, and the instructions given for using it.
It is also important to remember that an anting-anting, agimat, or mutya is only a tool. It will not do everything for you, but it may help remove obstacles, open opportunities, and strengthen your intention.
How Do You Choose an Anting-anting or Agimat?
Choose a charm that matches what you need, such as protection, love, money, health, or luck. It is also important that you feel comfortable with where it came from, how it was made, and the instructions for using it.
If you plan to buy one, ask the seller what it is for, how to use it, and what you should avoid. If the answer is not clear or the information is incomplete, it is better to be careful. The right charm should not only look good. You should also know how to care for it and use it properly.