Chamsa Hand Gifts, Jewelry

What is Chamsa

The Chamsa, meaning "five," is a decorative charm used in wall hangings and jewelry. It consists of a five fingered palm. Archeological findings suggest that it was used by the Phoenicians of Carthage.

Chamsa and Judaism

The Chamsa was introduced to Sefardic Judaism through Moslim cultures, and has been incorporated in the Kabbalah and other mystic beliefs. In the Hebrew language it may be called "Yad HaChamesh" - the hand of five, and is also called the hand of Miriam, sister of Moses.