The Hand of Fatima

Alaina's keychain

The Hand of Fatima, The Hand of Miriam, the Hamsa or the Hamesh. These are all names for the same symbol. This symbol is found on jewelry, wall decorations, and art. The main symbolism is to ward of the evil eye and to provide a protecting hand. There are a few different styles and the symbol is used in both Islamic and Jewish cultures, although it most likely predates both religions.

The Hand of Fatima refers to Fatima, the daughter of Muhammed. This is the name most often used in Islamic cultures. Hamsa means the number 5 in arabic, meaning the 5 fingures on the hand and symbolizing the 5 pillars of Islam. The Hand of Miriam is used in Judaism. Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron. Hamesh is 5 in hebrew and is used to symbolize the 5 books of the Torah.

Archeology has suggested that the symbol predates both religions and was originally the symbol of a goddess of an ancient religion. This could explain why both use this symbol, but neither religion officially recognizes it.

The symbol can be depicted as a biologically natural hand as shown above, or with two thumbs, one on each side forming a symmetrical hand. Sometimes an eye is placed in the middle of the palm, reinforcing the idea of protection from the evil eye.

This necklace belongs to Tova, a year long study abroad student here in Morocco. It displays the symmetrical two thumbs version with the eye in the middle.

When we got here, I noticed that lots of people had this symbol. It was on necklaces, key chains, bracelets, and in henna patterns. I find it to be a very beautiful symbol, especially because it unifies the two religions that used to be very close, but because of relatively recent political situations have had a lot of conflict. Many peace activists in the Middle East have adopted the symbol for that reason.

This is my new Hand of Fatima bracelet. My roommates each got one as well but in different colors.