The word “Hamsa” means “five,” representing the fingers of the right hand. For Hindus and Buddhists, it symbolizes chakras, energy flow in the body, the five senses and the mudras that effect them.
Each finger connects to an element and chakra: Thumb- Fire element, solar plexus chakra. Forefinger- Air element, heart chakra. Middle Finger- Ethereal elements, throat chakra. Ring Finger- Earth element, root chakra. Little Finger- Water element, sacral chakra.
When the Hamsa hand is facing up, it is a universal sign against evil. It is a powerful sign of protection, and shields us from our inner thoughts of hatred, jealousy and insecurities.