HAMSA HAND - SYMBOL OF PROTECTION
The Hamsa symbol, also known as the Hand of Fatima, is a hand with an eye in the center of the palm. The word Hamsa comes from the Hebrew word Hamesh, which translates to the number five, that is the symbol of a hand with five fingers. This is painting is titled “Protection” and is a mixed media original consisting of acrylic, resin, reflective media, and ink, brush, pen on canvas. It measures 11” x 14” with a black background and is the first piece in a new series.
“PROTECTION”
11” x 14” original mixed media painting on canvas by Christine Adele Moore.
According to Symbol Sage the symbol is known by many names, including:
Hamsa – a transliteration of the Arabic “Jamsa” or “Khamsah” meaning five
Hand of God – A general name
Hand of Fatima – After Fatima, the daughter of the Islamic prophet
Hand of Miriam – After Miriam, the sister of Aaron and Moses of Jewish faith
Hand of Mother Mary – After Mary, the mother of Jesus in Christian beliefs
Hamesh – Meaning 5 in Hebrew
It’s also known by the variations Humes Hand, Khamesh and Khamsa
The Hamsa symbol is often depicted as a symmetrical hand, with fingers pressed close together, either facing upwards or downwards. Sometimes, it features an eye at the center of the palm, which is the nazar boncugu, believed to repel the evil eye.
What is the Hansa Hand? - YogaJala
Two main cultural influences are said to have been the oldest origins of the Hamsa hand. The first originates in the Islamic religion, whose foundation is built on five beliefs. These five beliefs are faith, prayer, Alms, Fasting, and Pilgrimage.
In Judaism, the Hamsa hand represents the five books of the Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
Throughout Hinduism and Buddhism, the Hamsa is said to represent the five chakras of the body.
Pinkie – Sacral Chakra
Ring Finger – Root Chakra
Middle Finger – Throat Chakra
Forefinger – Heart Chakra
Thumb – Solar Plexus
In numerology, the number 5 corresponds to the need for change, bringing in new energy waves. Five is also about letting go and moving away from what no longer serves you.
