afus
Hand / Palm
Also: tafust, khemsa, hand of Fatima
Attested Usage
What is documented — academic sources, fieldwork, museum collections
The five fingers ward off evil - the number five has protective power (khamsa)
Source:Becker, C. (2006). Amazigh Arts in Morocco
academic · high confidence
The hand stops harm in its tracks
Open hand represents generosity and blessing, closed fist represents strength
Source:Camps, G. (1980). Berbères: Aux marges de l'histoire
academic · high confidence
Oral Interpretations
What people say it means — often multiple, sometimes contradictory
“Khemsa fi ainek - five in your eye, the hand blinds evil”
— Jewelry seller, Tiznit, Tiznit (2021)
This phrase is used when giving or blessing with the hand symbol
“The hand of my mother protects me - the five fingers are her blessing”
— Young woman explaining inherited jewelry, Paris (diaspora) (2022)
Contemporary Readings
How modern artists, communities, and movements reinterpret today
Symbol of Amazigh feminine power and maternal protection
By:Contemporary Amazigh jewelers
Context:Modern jewelry design incorporating traditional motifs
Language Connections
Associated Phrases
ⵙ ⵓⴼⵓⵙ ⵏ ⵕⴱⴱⵉ
s ufus n Rebbi
“By the hand of God (blessing phrase)”
Invocation of divine protection
Usage Notes
Ritual Use
Given as gift at weddings, worn for protection, hung on doors of new homes
Historical Context
Attested since:classical
Hand symbolism predates Islamic influence but has syncretized with it. Distinct Amazigh forms differ from generic 'Hand of Fatima'
Related Symbols
Sources
- Becker 2006
- Camps 1980
Last updated: 2024-06-01