Hamsa

Published on 14th March, 2021, in Mid-day. The 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. The word hamsa means five and represents the five fingers of the hand. When the palm faces outwards, and upwards, in Hindu symbolism, it means abhaya, do not be afraid. When the palm faces outwards but downwards, it means varada, the symbol of donation or charity. Around the world, people comfort each other by raising the palm upwards. They provide food by turning the palm ..