The Jewish Chamsa as a home decor piece hung on a wall, is a very common ornament in many Middle Eastern countries including Morocco, Israel, Egypt, Jordan and others.
In Jewish folklore the Chamsa is known as the Hand of Miriam or Hamesh Hand. The word Chamesh literaly means Five and is also the reason why the Chamsa sometimes shows in that format. The Chamsa is believed to have served as an ancient talismanic way of averting the Evil Eye, or more generally of providing a "protecting hand" or "Hand of God" known to draw positive energy, happiness, riches and health. It appears, often in a stylized form, as a hand with three fingers raised, and sometimes with two thumbs arranged symmetrically. The symbol is used in Hamsa amulets, Hamsa charms, Hamsa jewelry, Hamsa pendants door entrances, cars, and other places to ward off the Evil Eye. The Chamsa's (from the semite root meaning five) includes five digits and symbolizes the god's protective hand. Five is by itself a number which is associated with protection. In the Sephardic household the symbol of a fish is also used to repel the eye and originates from the Talmud. According to some of the writing it is believed that fish are immune from the evil eye because they are under water making them effective amulets.
In Israel and in Jewish culture globally it is most commonly known as "Hamsa" or "Chamsa", without any Islamic heritage connotations.
That’s beautiful! Where could I find one like it? I know my mom would love one! Thanks!
Hey Obama, See the concern in my eye?
(slowly pulling down lower eye lid)
I want one :-)