The Hamsa Hand Symbol - It's History and Use in Jewelry and Art

Hennaed Hamsa by wiccked

The eye-in-hand symbol is an ancient version of a charm to protect the wearer from evil. Today it is often seen as an Arabic or Jewish symbol, called a Hamsa (or Khamsa) but it was also used in many different cultures from the Ancient world. The eye-in-hand symbol was used in jewelry as well as in art works, in plaques and other decorations. One explanation of it's symbolism is that the five fingers can be used to blind anyone with evil intent towards the wearer.

Origins of the Hamsa Hand Symbol

In the Ancient world it is thought to have been used by the Phoencians as a symbol of the goddess Tanit, a patron of Carthage, although other sources suggest it originated as a Hindu symbol of a god or goddess.

The Hamsa in Modern Religions

In Judaism the Hamsa is worn as a protection against evil and is also called the Hand of Miriam, a reference to Miriam who was a sister of Aaron and Moses. It is used in wall decorations or worn as an amulet.

The Hamsa is also a symbol of Islamic people, who use it in decorative works. They call it the Hand of Fatima, after Muhammad's daughter Fatima Zahra and the symbol may represent the Five Pillars of Islam. Some young Jewish and Arabic people wear the Hamsa as a symbol for peace between their two peoples as the symbol is present in the belief systems of both.

	Blue Hamsa Necklace to Protect from the Evil Eye from the Artazia Collection #2412B JN MN * This hamsa pendant is hand painted in sparkling blues and purples, and decorated with gold leaf * Unique rounded eye, gold findings, and Swarovski crystals make this pendant very striking * Elegant yet funky design is sure to match a variety of styles * Each piece is truly like a miniature artwork * See our Total Satisfaction Pledge and easy return and refund policy Price: $59.99
	Blue & Gold Hamsa Necklace to Protect from the Evil Eye from the Artazia Collection #380B JN MN * This charming hamsa pendant is hand painted in shimmering blue and gold * A variety of colored beads and textured metal pieces decorates each unique pendant * The eye of this ancient symbol is comprized of aan amethyst Swarovski crystal * Each piece is truly like a miniature artwork * See our Total Satisfaction Pledge and easy return and refund policy Price:
	Funky Hamsa Pin from the Artazia Collection #571 JP MP OP * "This artsy, contemporary hamsa pin is a new spin on an ancient protection symbol" * "The pin is hand painted, and decorated in a variety of vivid colors and textures" * "Unique design is definitely eye-catching, and will match a variety of styles" * Each piece is truly like a miniature artwork * See our Total Satisfaction Pledge and easy return and refund policy Price: $32.50

Shop in the old part of Belgrade called Vracar, with the Khamsa/Hamsa (Hand of Fatima) near the door by Perecca

Hamsa Hand Designs

Different designs of the eye-in-hand symbol are seen including a design with the eye in the centre of a four fingered hand with a thumb present, a design where only the fingers are shown and a symmetrical design that depicts a three fingered hand with two thumbs. In addition the fingers may be represented pointing both up and down.

There is a wide range of Hamsa Hand jewelry available today in gold silver, glass and other materials. You can find necklaces, pendants and keychains all with the lovely eye-in-hand symbol.