Hamsa

Hand of Fatimah

 

 I am very intrigued by "hands" this week. 

I suspect it was because I saw a pretty necklace by Monsoon.

Initially I thought this was a "heart-in-hand" symbol which according to wiki, it is a symbol of charity, given from the heart. However I noticed on the Monsoon website that this called the Hand of Fatimah!

The Hand of Fatimah, also called the Hamsa, is a palm-shaped amulet popular throughout the Middle East and North Africa. This Muslim talisman subsequently passed into the Jewish tradition. Even Madonna was spotted wearing a Loree Rodkin diamond-studded Hamsa amulet.

The hand has been a symbol of blessings, power and strength and is used as a superstitious defense against the evil eye. Anyhow, the Hamsa has become a trendy and popular "good luck" charm.

Whimsigals blog has a very inspiring crafty project on the Hand of Fatima which I thought it was absolutely gorgeous!

Linda Altshuler's Hamsa Yisrael is fascinating.
It is a mandala of a circle of peace and protection of the Jewish homes.

Now, how's that on hands?

Do share what are your favourite images on hands and what does it mean to you!