The early Byzantines believed in the power of God and the saints and the skill of physicians to cure and prevent illness. At the same time there was a strong belief that magic could heal or protect a person from sickness and misfortune. These beliefs manifested themselves in a number of ways, such as the wearing of apotropaic (evil-averting) amulets and jewellery. Biblical phrases were often added to the amulets to enhance their magical powers.