Hamsa Jewelry

The Hamsa (Hebrew: חמסה‎) is a symbol used in amulets, charms and jewelry to protect against the "evil eye."

An alternative Jewish name is the Hand of Miriam, in reference to Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron. It is a kind of "protecting hand" or "hand of God".

Some associate the significance of the five fingers to the five books of the Torah. The fingers can point up or down.

Jewish custom

Clay hamsa on a wall, inscribed with the Hebrew word "behatzalcha"" - "May you enjoy success"Hamsas are popular as charms and decorations in Israel and are not considered to have any Islamic connection other than the Arabic name. Among Jews, fish are considered to be a symbol of good luck, so many hamsas are also decorated with fish images. Hamsas are incorporated in wall plaques, mobiles, keychains and necklaces. Sometimes they are inscribed with Hebrew prayers, such as the Sh'ma, the Birkat HaBayit (Blessing for the Home), or the Tefilat HaDerech (Traveler's Prayer).