What is a Hamsa?

About the Jewish talisman - the Israeli Hamsa jewelry

The hamsa is a Middle Eastern symbol dating back to prehistoric times designed to give protection from the evil eye, bad luck that results from the attention or jealousy of others.

Today it is used both by Jewish and Muslim culture. The hamsa consists of a hand, usually pointing fingers down with an eye in the middle.

Most commonly, the Hamsa is made in the shape of a hand with five fingers outstretched. There is, however, the unique Cohanim Hamsa. In this position, the forefinger and third finger are joined from one side, and the ring finger and the little finger are joined from the other side. This forms the Hebrew letter "shin" and is the position of a Cohen's fingers when he blesses the congregation.

A filigree silver hamsa

The name "Hamsa" ("Hansa" in Sanskrit, or "Al Khamsa" in Arabic) is from the Semitic root word for five, and is a very ancient symbol in the Middle East. Although it is an ancient symbol, the Hamsa is still popular today and is believed to possess magical powers of protection, happiness and prosperity.

hamsa necklace with roman glass