There’s a lot of confusion out there about the meaning of the Hand of Fatima. Is it a good luck symbol? Protection against evil eye? Both? Here’s an explanation of the history and meaning of this popular symbol.
The Story of Fatima
Fatima bint Mohammad, famously known as Fatima Az Zahra is thought to have been a great teacher of love and kindness whose story continues to be shared today. According to Islamic tradition, Mohammed once sent her to compete in a debate with a philosopher. After the philosopher failed to prove he was smarter, Mohammed blessed Fatima as the highest example of knowledge and understanding of faith, thus enshrining her as an important figure in Islamic history. Mohammed even went as far as claiming that anyone who loves her will be saved from hellfire and rewarded with promises upon them. Of course, this speaks highly of Mohammed’s consideration of knowledge and his dedication to caring for those around him. Today, people still honor such values held by Fatima, striving for the same kind of virtuousness Mohammed nurtured and encouraged.
According to legends, Fatima was cooking one day when she suddenly noticed her husband coming home with a new wife. Distraught, she dropped the spoon and continued stirring the pot with her bare hand. Because she was so overcome with grief, she didn’t even feel any pain. When she finally took her hand out of the pot, it had two thumbs—a miracle wrought by her intense emotions.
The hand as a symbol
The hand is often seen as a symbol of luck for many around the world. From Hamsa amulets to seeing someone get picked in a crowd, there is sure to be a sign of protection with the hand present – especially when so much good luck can come from it.
In some countries, people will come together to warmly place their hands on each other for longer periods to share happiness. Many spiritual beliefs revolve around the power stored within both hands and its ability to bring good fortune. It’s no surprise why so many people lift their hands in prayer or a joyous celebration, eagerly awaiting the possibilities that a gesture like this can bring them.
A symbol of fertility
Hand symbols are quite a fascinating concept, and there are a few cultures that attach great significance to hands as fertility symbols. For instance, in Hinduism, the right hand often symbolizes well-being, fertility, and prosperity; this notion is reflected in wedding ceremonies where the hands of the bride and groom are joined together for good luck. The intertwining of hands between man and wife is seen as a representation of their loving union, thereby representing fertility. Native American traditions also recognize the beauty of hands as symbols — some tribes believe that painters marking marks on the hands help bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual planes, with bright colors representing an abundance of life force energy. These powerful symbols remind us of how beautiful it can be when we come together in love and harmony.
The Hand of Fatima can be found in art, jewelry, and architecture from around the world
The Hand of Fatima has become a powerful symbol of protection and blessing, found in artwork, jewelry, architecture, and more around the world. This iconic thumbed hand offers followers protection from the “evil eye” throughout the day. It has gained worldwide recognition through depictions of its positive symbolism in art forms including pottery, statues, paintings, and more.
Jewelers have even used this meaningful gesture for modern expressions like rings or necklaces with both traditional and contemporary values. The Hand of Fatima can be seen on buildings from university walls to desert caves in Africa as an age-old amulet to ward off evil spirits. From diverse religious backgrounds to simple acts of good luck; Fatima’s powerful hand attracts believers globally.
Fatima’s hand is a popular symbol around the world.
You can see it in art, jewelry, and architecture from all corners of the globe.
If you want to learn more about this powerful symbol and how it’s interpreted in other cultures, be sure to check out other posts on the magical hand symbol.
