Hamsa Hand

The hamsa hand is a five fingered amulet found commonly throughout the Middle East. Throughout the centuries, the three monotheistic religions have claimed its protective and symbolic qualities. In Islam it is often called Fatima’s Hand, she was the daughter of the prophet Mohammad. In Judaism it is called the Hand of God and there is evidence in very early Christianity it was called Mary’s Hand, until the Catholic church banned the wearing of the piece. In all three religions it has symbolized protection for women. In Turkey, I often saw the hand on the entrance to a woman owned shop or as a mosaic on the floor.

The hand is almost always symmetrical, as if you superimposed two hands on top of each other. This is because God is neither left handed nor right handed. The word hamsa means five and the five fingers represent either the first five books of the Torah, the five pillars of Islam, or a reminder to use your five senses to praise God. Sometimes the hand will have a jeweled eye in the center and this is said to protect the wearer from the evil eye, which is brought about by a malevolent glare, usually given to a person when one is unaware.

I became fascinated with the hamsa hand when I was visiting Istanbul, Turkey. I loved the meaning of it, and in this day what woman doesn’t need a little of God’s protection. I often use the hand as a pendent in my long necklaces. Sometimes the hand is very bold and takes center stage and sometimes the hand is subtle and appears amongst other charms. Either way, I hope my jewelry will bring you God’s protection and peace as you travel throughout this life.