Hamsa, or Hand of Fatima: the meaning of the talisman
Which is used by representatives of different nations and religious denominations. It is very popular in the Middle East among followers of Islam and Judaism. This amulet has several names - Hand of Miriam, Hamsa, Hand of Fatima. The meaning of the talisman remains unchanged - protection from the evil eye and damage.
Origin of the symbol
The word “hamsa” is of Semitic origin; it literally translates as “five”, “quintuplet”. Archaeological excavations confirm that the image of the open palm was widely used in the ancient world long before the founding of Islam. Similar symbols can be found in Mesopotamia (hand of Ishtar), Ancient Egypt (Mano Pantea), the ancient world (hand of Venus, hand of Aphrodite), Phenicia (hand of Tanit) and among followers of Buddhism.
For all nations, this symbol served as a protector from the evil eye and malicious influence of any kind.
In Judaism, the talisman was called the “Hand of Miriam” after the sister of Aaron and Moses, who was called the savior of Israel and was considered a prophetess.
One of the Arab legends connects the talisman with Fatima, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad. One day Ali, Fatima's husband, came home with the news that he was going to bring a second wife into the house. At this time, the woman was cooking food on the fire. Out of shock, she let go of the spoon and continued to stir the boiling brew with her hand, not noticing the physical pain due to mental suffering. Since that time, Fatima's hand has been considered a symbol of humility, faith and fortitude.
Fatima's hand is a symbolic image of an open palm with three straightened fingers in the middle and two symmetrical thumbs on the sides.
Often magical symbols and sacred texts are applied to the palm to make the amulet more effective:
- eye - for additional protection from damage;
- the star of David - as a talisman against dark forces;
- fish - to strengthen family well-being;
- crescent - to attract good luck;
- texts of prayers - to enhance the protective qualities of the talisman.
For Hamsa, shades of blue are always chosen, since it is this color that protects against witchcraft and any negative influence. If precious stones and minerals are used in the decoration of the talisman, then blue materials are also preferred.
Since ancient times, the hand has been considered a symbol of power, protection and punishment. It gives a person spirituality, directs him to the right path in life and attracts good luck and prosperity to him. In all traditions, the main purpose of Hamsa is to protect its owner from the influence of the forces of evil and accumulate positive energy.
In any religion, Hamsa is associated with images of goddesses and holy women, therefore it provides special protection to the beautiful half of humanity. Women in the East believe that Hamsa will help them preserve their family hearth and protect their home from envious people and enemies, and young girls wear Hamsa in the hope of getting married successfully.
Muslims are convinced that the Hand of Fatima has healing properties and can cure any disease.
For followers of Islam and Judaism, the Hamsa is not only a talisman, but also the most important religious symbol with a special meaning, where the five fingers are closely connected with the sacred concepts of faith.
In Islam, the Hand of Fatima symbolizes the five pillars of faith: fasting during Ramadan, giving alms to the disadvantaged, performing the prescribed ablutions, fighting infidels and pilgrimage to Mecca. Another meaning of the Hand of Fatima is the family of the prophet: Muhammad himself, his daughter Fatima, Fatima’s husband Ali, Fatima’s two sons Hussein and Hassan.
Among the Jews, the Hand of Miriam is associated with the Pentateuch - the five holy books of the Torah, and is also interpreted as a designation of the five senses of man.
How to use a talisman correctly
The amulet is quite versatile in use. Although, traditionally, Hamsa is considered a women's amulet, it also helps men and especially children. The hand of Fatima can be worn as decoration, placed in the home, car, office and even as a tattoo on the body.
In a building, it is recommended to hang a talisman above the front door to protect the house from visitors with bad intentions and evil forces. Inside the car, the Hand of Fatima will protect you from dangers on the road and make the long journey easier. In the workplace, it will help you to be collected and bring success.
The hand of Fatima is a wonderful amulet for pregnant women. It will protect the expectant mother and baby from all misfortunes, strengthen the health of both and make childbirth easier. The amulet is also recommended to be worn by young children who do not yet have sufficient protection against accidental or intentional evil eye. It can be hung around the neck or put on the handle, or placed in a baby stroller.
The image has the same power as keychains, pendants and other products. Therefore, it is often used in decorative patterns on the walls of houses and embroidered on clothes.
Nowadays, the Hand of Fatima has acquired a special meaning as a talisman. It represents the unity of all peoples and faiths, emphasizing the common origin of religions, and acts as a symbol of hope and protection of peace on Earth.
