Known by different names such as Khamsa, Hamsa, Hand of Fatma, Hand of Mariam, or el Kaf. The palm-hand symbol is the most viral among other oriental symbols as it has different historical and cultural connections.
In BTC, our artists were inspired by the Hamsa symbol considering its popularity, and unique figure in the Middle East region as many designers use it in jewelry and other gold ornaments. The product journey of developing el kaf on our 21K gold coins included a deep dive into its meaning and influence in many regions.
So Let’s explore the usages and meanings of El Kaf across different cultures…
In Ancient Egypt: Horus’s Eye of Protection
In Ancient Egypt, there was a primitive amulet close in figure with El Kaf/ Hamsa, including an eye and a hand. The symbolism of the open hand with the eye of Horus has been associated with protection, especially after the widespread Isis and Osiris legend. In the legend, Horus didn’t reclaim his throne back from his uncle Set except through a magical blue eye, which is later named the Eye of Horus.
That’s how the world carried the concept of the protecting hand and eye through centuries and saw it as a shield against evil.
In Islam: Known as El Kaf or Khamsa or Kaf Fatma
In Islam, El Kaf/ Hamsa Symbol made its first appearance as a symbol in the Maliki era after the Islamic era and it was called the palm of Fatma, in reference to the name of Mohammed’s daughter Fatma Al-Zahraa. The five fingers represent the 5 pillars of Islam but are mainly a symbol used for protection and considered defense to ward off the Evil eye.
While others strongly believe it is an amulet of the five verses of Surat Al-Falaq protecting people from envy and the evil eye.
Over time, El Kaf was modernly used in Muslim communities worldwide, worn as jewelry or displayed in homes as decorations, and used as a protective ritual.
In Christianity: The Healing Hand of Mariam
Among Christians, it is believed that the palm of Mariam in Christianity bears a reference to the Virgin Mary and her blessed hand and represents rebirth and good fortune. It is believed that it protects mothers, and guards them from potential evils.
Energy Embodiment of Protection
While El-Kaf/ Hamsa Symbol holds diverse meanings across religions and cultures. The concept of energy embodiment explores an untraditional perspective of Hamsa. There are a lot of beliefs that Hamsa/ El Kaf navigates internal energy to balance, protection, and higher positivity. And that comes from the view of the symbol itself and the meaning it holds.
Cherishing the story behind El-Kaf, the charm is featured on our 21K gold coin with the backside presenting the phrase mashallah (ما شاء الله); one of the iconic Islamic phrases believed to be protecting against the evil eye.