The Talmud tells us that since humans always felt threatened by unknown forces such as demons, disease, and catastrophes, they sought methods to prevent or at least neutralize these ambiguous and supernatural forces. Further examples include curses, evil eyes, and the devil’s eye.
In the past, many people believed in concepts like curses, magic, charms, and segula. These beliefs were also mentioned in the Mishnah and Gemara. However, over time, many of these superstitious beliefs have become less common. Despite this, some individuals, both Jews and followers of other religions, continue to hold onto these mythological symbols to varying degrees.
It was believed that demons eat, drink, reproduce, and die like humans and, because they are invisible, can cause serious harm with a bad eye. These invisible demons were also considered responsible for disease. Nowadays, it is clear that microbes and viruses cause infections and can even lead to death.
The Khamsa, also known as the Palm, is one amulet that has survived among many cultures from the past to this day. Although Khamsa is considered a segula in Judaism, the amulet is used by all kinds of cultures and faiths, with dedicated designs and decorations and their own religious inscriptions. It is worth noting that none of the novelty of the Khamsa has changed the original characteristics of the amulet or the traditions and culture associated with it; they were merely tasteful modifications.
The origins of the Khamseh remain unclear, but speculation suggests it was initially used as a religious tradition among Sephardic Jews — the Jews of Morocco. Gradually, this practice extended to become commonplace among other Middle Eastern communities.
Among these symbolic items, the Khamsa is represented as an open hand (inspired by the right hand) and is considered the sole power able to neutralize evil eyes, devil eyes, jealousy, grudges, and curses.
As a longstanding religious belief, the Khamsa (or Hamsa) has always been a symbol of peace and well-being among Sephardic Jews. It also represents Divine protection from dangers.
Throughout history, Jewish scholars have provided various interpretations regarding the mystical power and hidden physical abilities associated with it. Later on, other cultures also adopted the Khamsa for similar purposes, reflecting their own beliefs and values.
Khamsa symbolizes the five Books of the Torah — Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy — written by Moses, the Israelite prophet, in 13 B.C. Interpreters have continuously emphasized that mankind can deter evil and badness if they obey the commands of the five Books and reach worldly and eternal peace. For instance, the Book of Deuteronomy, Parshah Ki Tavo, chapter 26, promises a blissful future to those who obey the commands of the Torah. Chapter 28 of the same Parshah, however, unequivocally threatens those who disobey these laws.
It is noteworthy that hands and palms hold significant importance in the anatomy of various animals, particularly in humans. According to Kabbalists, hands serve as a crucial link for individuals to connect with spirituality within the material realm. Through one’s hands, important and spiritual actions can be performed, such as production, acquiring sustenance, touching, expressing kindness, praying, prostrating, eating, engaging in the struggle for survival, and communicating with the Almighty and other entities in the world.
It is essential to recognize that, since the late fifteenth century, a system known as sign language has emerged, affirming the practicality and effectiveness of hands and fingers. This language utilizes the movement of hands and fingers to convey letters of the alphabet and words, catering specifically to individuals with hearing impairments. It serves as an alternative to traditional written or oral communication methods. Additionally, in 1924, a significant tactile script called “Braille” was introduced for the blind, allowing them to read and write by touching the script with their fingertips.
Abjad
There are five fingers with different sizes on each hand, and each finger has a few segments. In total, there are 14 segments on each hand. Notably, the Abjad value of the word “יד” (i.e., Yad), meaning hand, is also 14. When both hands are considered together, the combined 28 segments align with the Abjad value of the Hebrew word “כּוֹחַ” (i.e., Koakh), signifying power or strength. Hands have always been considered a helpful, widely practical, and holy tool for mankind.
According to the Holy Book, an open pair of hands symbolizes generosity. Other hand gestures may represent Divine power. In Exodus, specifically Parshah Bo, it is articulated, “The Lord delivered you from Egypt with His mighty hand so that you uphold the Divine commandments.” The Talmud also offers interpretations concerning the hand of the Lord, with elaborations found in various sections of the Book of Psalms (Tehillim) and other Jewish religious texts. Furthermore, in the folklore literature of various cultures, detailed explanations about the physical manifestation of the hand and the inherent power within it are extensively explored.
The human hand stands as a fully evolved and remarkable organ, recognized as one of the body’s integral and essential components. Through extensive studies conducted by palmistry experts over the years, a deeper understanding of the physical aspects of hands has emerged. This includes insights into the appearance of hands, the lines and prominences on the palm (both left and right), fingers, finger length, prominence names, finger names, finger lines, palm-associated stars (phalanges), and phalange capabilities. These studies offer a heightened awareness, as palmists view these signs and lines as reflections of an individual’s identity, authenticity, and destiny. Although hands may seem similar at a glance, closer observation reveals unique palm lines, sensitivities, and capabilities in each person. No two people have the same palm features.
Expert palmists can infer the characteristics of a person and make predictions of their future by simply observing their palms. Furthermore, hand gestures can be used to convey emotions such as anger, love, affection, eloquence, and rhetoric. Therefore, palmistry researchers argue that palm lines and creases directly connect with human behaviors and states.
It may be interesting to know that the left palm shows the characteristics that a person has inherited, while the right palm reveals the characteristics that a person has developed on their own. Due to the breadth of this topic, a more detailed explanation is not provided in this article.
The Bad Eye, as mysterious as it may be, has survived within the human community for thousands of years and remains a superstitious belief even among some of the most advanced human societies in the world. In some groups, it has even made it into their religious beliefs.
To end this article with a conclusion, it is recommended to either refrain from showcasing one’s strengths and achievements to avoid arousing envy in others, or distance oneself from these superstitious beliefs. As we experience the highs and lows of life, it is crucial to maintain a spiritual perspective of every moment. At times, we must embrace our destiny, while in other situations, we must fight for it. Regardless, we must protect our true essence amidst the constructive and destructive events of our life.
In an age-old narration addressing the “bad eye” and strategies to counteract its effects, there is a belief that when someone harbors envy towards their neighbor — whether for the neighbor themselves or their belongings — it manifests as a form of protest rooted in jealousy and resentment. This protest signifies the individual’s dissatisfaction with what they lack or have been deprived of in some manner while the neighbor possesses it, seemingly in excess.
They say this protest will ascend from the earthly world to the spiritual world, and in a way, the voice of protest will be heard in the spiritual realm. Immediately, the neighbor’s case will be judged in the spiritual world, and a swift response will be given to the complainant. The neighbor’s actions will be scrutinized to determine whether they truly deserve what has been granted to them or not. After examination, if the neighbor is found deserving of what they have, the protest will be rejected. However, if evidence proves otherwise, the neighbor will face financial or life difficulties as a form of punishment and penalty.
Source:
Mystical beliefs, Yosef Setareshenas
Other articles:
Segula, Bad Eye, Evil Eye
