Number 30: I have always loved the symbol of the Hamsa. It is a symbol both for Jews and Muslims. Depicting the open right hand, an image recognized and used as a sign of protection in many times throughout history, the Hamsa is believed to provide defense against the evil eye. Khamsah is an Arabic word that means “five”  (close to “Chamesh” in Hebrew), symbolic of the five fingers of the human hand.

I have been collecting them for many years and people, who know I regard them as special, have also given me Hamsas as gifts.

When in Morocco and specifically in Marrakesh with Ray and my sister Ilana in  December 2014, Ilana and l wandered into an antique shop which was filled with Judaica and l found it fascinating. I asked the owner about his large collection of Judaica and he said that his father before him and himself had bought Judaic items from Jews that were leaving Morocco. When l enquired as to the price of some of the items l was told that they are really for ‘rich Americans’.

I returned later with Ray to show him the shop and to meet the owner. The owner was once again very charming, and while we were waiting to have mint tea as his guests, he sent an assistant to bring a gift for me. It was this book in the picture: “The Hand in Morocco” that he wrote and he was gifting it to me. In the front he wrote in Arabic a message about the importance of getting to understand the ‘other.’

We had a wonderful trip to Morocco. l loved the food, the architecture and the places we visited. I have been inspired to paint, make ceramics and cook Moroccan food, particularly using a tagine.  This book is still a happy memory of our time in Marrakesh.

Written by Sheryl