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.

The "Virgin Hodegetaria" is often called the "Our Lady of the Way" in the west, because she holds the Christ child with one hand, and points to Him with the other hand.