Category Archives: Jewish Symbols
Popular Jewish Charms for Luck and Protection
Jewish charms have been used by Jewish men and women all across the world for many generations. Jewish charms include several prominent motifs that are believed to draw blessing and protection to the bearer. One of the most popular Jewish crams is the Hamsa hand which features many kinds of Jewish jewelry accessories. There is a wide selection of Jewish charms available on the web. Today, contemporary Jewish artists give new interpretations to ancient Jewish charms and turn them into fashionable items that also have symbolic significance. Here we would like to introduce you with several prominent Jewish charms.
Star of David – a famous Jewish symbol and one of the most popular Jewish Charms
The Star of David or Magen David is probably the most significant Jewish symbol and also one of the most popular Jewish charms. Star of David means in Hebrew a shield or protector, which might refers to possible origin of the sign. According to tradition, the six pointed star came from King David’s shield. King David’s shield was used by King David and his warriors in battlefield, leading his army to great victories. The shape of the hexagram is also believed by many cultures to draw positive energies, and sometimes you can see non-Jews who wear Star of David pendants.
To this day, many people believe that wearing the Star of David on one’s neck or wrists draws divine protection to the bearer. The Star of David is also one of the most ancient Jewish charms. Although Star of David has become known in the last century, The use of the Star of David as a protective Jewish charm dates back to as early as the Middle Ages. In many ancient cultures, six or five pointed star has been thought to possess powerful energies and has been used to fight off evil spirits and other negative energies. In the field of Jewish jewelry, Star of David necklaces are common Jewish charms worn by Jewish men and women around the world.
The Hamsa Hand – A Traditional Jewish Symbol for Luck and Protection
The Hamsa hand is a symbol which dates back to ancient times. It is often seen in the form of an amulet or talisman, and is thought to have the power to ward of the evil eye, otherwise known as harmful forces. As the Hamsa hand has such a rich history it is worth discussing in more detail.
The Hamsa hand has its origins in the Middle East, and the ancient traditions of Islam and Judaism, although under different names. In Islam it is known as the hand of Fatima, with the five fingers representing the five pillars of Islam. Jews know it as the hand of Miriam, and in this case the five fingers represent the five books of the Torah.
In both faiths the Hamsa hand ultimately represents the Hand of God, and as such is a very powerful symbol for not only good fortune, but also protection from evil. In cultures where Hamsas are adopted they can be seen in many different places, including in cars and painted onto buildings and doors.
The symbol itself is usually visualized as a hand with three fingers pointing upwards, and two symmetrical thumbs. There is usually an eye in the middle of the hand. However, this is not universally the case and designs can vary. Hamsas do not necessarily have to be symmetrical, and they can also be placed with the fingers pointing either up or down.
The eye in the middle of the Hamsa hand represents the power to ward of the evil eye. This relates to the belief in many cultures that a certain look given by someone with harmful intentions can bring misfortune to the receiver. Hamsas are a protection against this curse, but more than that they are believed to actually bring good luck.
Due to the fact that the Hamsa hand is believed to bring good fortune and to protect from the evil eye it is often found in jewelry including necklaces, rings, and bracelets. It is also common to see them as key-chains. In fact, any means by which a Hamsa hand can be carried on the person as an amulet will allow the owner to feel protected.
The Hamsa hand is more than just a good luck charm however, and the fact that it represents the Hand of God means that it has real religious significance. The symbol is shared between Muslims and Jews, providing a common reference point and perhaps offering some hope for peaceful relations in the Middle East.
