Filakto (Greek: φυλακτό)

Also known as a phylactery, the filakto is a small baby pin, charm or amulet used in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, especially in Greek traditions, to offer spiritual protection and blessings. Today, it is commonly pinned to a newborn’s pillow to shield them from misfortune or negative forces until baptism. Some continue to wear it into adulthood for ongoing protection. Whether bestowed at birth or kept for a lifetime, the filakto remains a treasured family tradition and a meaningful keepsake.