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hamsa

1 8.6

A palm-shaped charm from Middle Eastern cultures that people wear or hang to protect against harm

noun
/ˈhɑːm.sə/

Literature

: hamsa

The hamsa, or hand of Fatima, is a protective amulet used across the region.

Examples

In many Middle Eastern homes, you'll find a hamsa hanging on the wall to bring good luck.
The hamsa is often worn as jewelry to provide protection and ward off evil eyes.
She received a beautiful hamsa as a gift that she believed would keep her safe during her travels.

Synonyms

amulet

vshamsa

72 7.2

A small object worn as jewelry that people believe protects them from harm

is the palm shaped protective object used in Middle Eastern belief

ankh

vshamsa

Literature

3 9.6

An Egyptian cross-shaped symbol with a loop at the top that stands for life

serves mainly as a palm shaped protective symbol rather than a life emblem

chai

vshamsa

Literature

1 9.6

A Jewish symbol meaning life often worn as a pendant to bring good luck

is focused on protection against evil rather than expressing life or luck

yantra

vshamsa

Indian

1 9.9

A small metal plate with a sacred diagram kept for protection

is a palm shaped protective object used in Middle Eastern cultures

menat

vshamsa

Specialized

1 9.9

A heavy beaded necklace used in ancient Egyptian temple ceremonies, often connected to the goddess Hathor

is a simple palm shaped protective object used broadly for everyday protection

How Protective

amulet

72 7.2

hamsa

Literature

1 8.6

talisman

34 8.2

good luck charm

2 3.0

Surface Forms

hamsa singular

hamsas plural

Etymology

Hamsa for the palm-shaped charm comes from Arabic khamsa and Hebrew hamesh, both meaning 'five', because the image is a hand with five fingers used to ward off the 'evil eye', so a hamsa is worn or hung to protect people and homes.