Archeologist findings of Hamsas suggest that the origins of the Hamsa hand can be traced to thousands of years ago. First appearances of Hamsa hand are linked to the Moon goddess Tanit, who was one of the patron goddesses of Carthage. In the last centuries, Hamsa hand symbol has been adopted by the Judaism and Islam. However, it is importnant to note - Hamsa is not a religious symbol. Judaism has adopted the Semitic name and uses Hamsas for the same purpose - as a protective amulet against negative energies.
Meaning of Hamsa :
The Hamsas are shaped as a symmetrical five-finger hand with two thumbs. The Semitic name - Hamsa literally means "five" in Arabic, referring to the five stretched fingers of the hand.
Hamsas are known as the Hand of Miriam. Miriam is the older sister of biblical Moses and Aaron. Miriam has a significant role in the story of Exodus. Miriam took an active part in the escape of the Israelites from Egypt. Miriam's miraculous well has provided water that saved the Israelites from dehydration in the desert.
Hamsa is also known in Jewish tradition as the hand of God or the protective hand of God. Many see the five fingers of the Hamsa hand as representing the five books of the Torah.
In Islam, Hamsa is also known the Hand of Fatima or Eye of Fatima. The Fatima refers to Fatima Zahra, the daughter of Mohammad, the prophet of Islam. There is an interesting folklore behind that name. The story tells that Fatima was stirring hot milk when her husband Ali suddenly entered the room in with another woman. Fatima was so overwhelmed that her spoon fell into the boiling stew. Without noticing, Fatima kept on stirring using her own hand as a spoon. Thus, the hand of Fatima has turned thus into a symbol of faith and tolerance. The eye that is often incorporated in Hamsas stands for the tear that Fatima shed.
Which way is the Jewish Hamsa hand supposed to face?
When the Hamsas point to the ground, it is believed to draw positive female energies, good fortune and blessing. When the Hamsas stand upward, that is, point to the sky, it draws male energies .The male energies keep out evil eye and bring personal safeguard. Hang or place your Hamsas according to the energies you wish to enhance.
Here we offer you a broad selection of Hamsas that include decorative Hamsas in a variety of original designs, wall hangings, blessing for the business and other types of blessings for the home. These Hamsas are all handcrafted by fine Israeli artists and made in Israel. Our Hamsa hand pieces will fill any room with warm and delightful colors and make a wonderful gift for a housewarming or wedding, to your hosts or for yourself.
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