Hamsa

“Hamsa” is a common symbol used across the Middle East as a good luck sign. Originating in Ancient Egypt probably, it is used to bring in prosperity and to ward off evil. In Arabic, the term “Khamsah” (an alternate spelling of “hamsa”) means five. However, as a symbol, the hamsa has more meaning than just a number. It often signifies divine protection. It can also indicate peace, intercultural unity, divine femininity, and other concepts.

The Hamsa is most often used as a symbol of divine protection. The open right hand has generally been used this way across cultures for centuries. In some Indian religions (i.e., Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism), Mudras are specific hand poses that are often used in meditation or prayer. Mudras are also part of the dance and visual arts.