Hamsa Jewish Jewelry
Hamsa FAQ's
What does Hamsa mean?
Hamsa is Arabic for the number 5, a version of the Hebrew word Hamesh, which is also the number 5. The hamsa is a hand symbol that has all 5 fingers showing, some say it is the right hand. It has origins all over the Middle East and is widely recognized as a good luck symbol.
What religion is the Hamsa?
The Hamsa symbol is claimed by Judaism, Christianity and Islam. In Judaism its known as the hand of G-d, in Islam, fatima’s hand and in Christianity the hand of Mary. It’s a good luck symbol in all three religions though the symbolism varies slightly from religion to religion.
Where does Hamsa come from?
The hamsa dates all the way back to ancient Mesopotamia and Carthage. Images of an open hand are seen in artifacts in the amulets of the goddess of Ishtar. It originated in the Middle East/ North Africa but is a symbol that is prevalent in Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
Are Hamsa and Evil Eye the same thing?
No, the hamsa is a good luck symbol that is used to offer protection from the evil eye.. The evil eye is thought of as an envious gaze that is thought to cause sickness, misfortune or bad luck. Many Hamsa designs incorporate the evil eye but they are not the same.
Which way should the Hamsa face?
Hamsa’s can face both up or down. Its more common to find them pointing down. Some say that Hamsas are only lucky if they point up. That is probably because those are more rare and harder to find. It is also believed that if it faces down, the hamsa represents goodness and abundance.
Can anyone wear a Hamsa?
Yes, anyone can wear a Hamsa. It is a symbol that is shared by many religions but in recent years has become very universal. Its popular all over the world with people of all ages and does not identify with one particular religion or group of people.
Is a Hamsa good luck?
Yes, the hamsa is a good luck amulet which is meant to offer protection from the evil eye. It Mesopotamia and North Africa it offers magical protection and fertility to women. Some believe that the fingers are spread apart to repel evil.