Art
Framed Collection of Hamsahs
- Item Number
- 6109
- Estimated Value
- 350 USD
- Sold
- 170 USD to anyastor
- Number of Bids
- 4 - Bid History
Item Description
The hamsahis 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 for Jews, the Five Pillars of Islam for Sunnis, or the five People of the Cloak for Shi'ites. This symbolism may have evolved at a later stage, in view of the fact that archaeological evidence suggests the hamsa predates both religions. It is thought by some to have originated with the Phoenicians to honor Tanit who was a patron of Carthage.
In the Jewish custom, the hamsa is usually called the Hand of Miriam, but may also be called by other names such as the "Hand of God". Hamsas are popular as decorations and charms among Jews who do not consider them to have any Islamic connection other than the shared name, which is the same in both Arabic and Hebrew.
Among some Jews, particularly Kabbalists, 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 and keychains. Sometimes they are inscribed with Hebrew prayers
Donated By:
Valley Beth Shalom Day School
Valley Beth Shalom Day School stores data...
Your support matters, so Valley Beth Shalom Day School would like to use your information to keep in touch about things that may matter to you. If you choose to hear from Valley Beth Shalom Day School, we may contact you in the future about our ongoing efforts.
Your privacy is important to us, so Valley Beth Shalom Day School will keep your personal data secure and Valley Beth Shalom Day School will not use it for marketing communications which you have not agreed to receive. At any time, you may withdraw consent by emailing Privacy@frontstream.com or by contacting our Privacy Officer. Please see our Privacy Policy found here PrivacyPolicy.