Concept in Definition ABC

The jansa or hamsa, also known as the Hand of Fatima and many other denominations, is a symbol which is used as a protective amulet. The word hamsa or jamsa is used in Hebrew and Arabic and in both cases it means five.

The symbol consists of the picture of a hand with three raised fingers and usually with two thumbs arranged symmetrically. The fingers of the hand can point up or down and sometimes the hand contains other types of symbols, such as the Star of David or other religious inscriptions.

The hamsa in Islam and Judaism

In Islam the hamsa symbolizes the five pillars of the religion: the testimony of faith, prayer, helping the needy or Zakat, the fast of Ramadan and the pilgrimage to Mecca. For the Jews, it represents the five books that make up the Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

Followers of Islam hold that the Hamsa or Hand of Fatima is related to Fatima, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad. For the Jews, this symbol represents Miriam, the older sister of Moses.

In the world of esotericism

Experts in esotericism maintain that like any other amulet, the hamsa must be cleaned before using it so that the negative energies that it may have disappear. For this, a white candle, grain salt, incense, a deep glass plate, earth, Water blessed and essence of rue.

After gathering these ingredients, the hamsa is subjected to a process of purification or cleaning spiritual for several successive days. After all the procedure, the amulet is ready for use.

The protective properties it possesses are diverse. First of all, it serves to protect from any evil. In a special way, it is used to ward off disease and attract good luck. On the other hand, those who believe in its power consider that it helps to be more patient and less angry, helps fight the evil eye and prevents natural disasters.

For her power to be effective, it is usual to place the amulet on a wall or on a door in the home and pray for the desired protection.

Other amulets

Those who believe in the power of amulets or talismans cling to them as an element that provides them force and protection against some kind of evil or threat. Some of the objects that are used in this sense are the following: the eye of horus, the saktl, the ashanti, the ik-ga-oh or the atlantean ring.

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