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Cong Barzaga receives a 'hamsa' from Israeli envoy, but what is it for?

Philippines | National

Cong Barzaga receives a 'hamsa' from Israeli envoy, but what is it for?

By Ellson Quismorio

Who needs a four-leaf clover when you have a hamsa straight from Israel?

Cavite 4th district Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. (left) and Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss (Facebook)

Cavite 4th district Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. was gifted with the amulet by Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss during the latter's visit to the congressmen Tuesday, Feb, 7 at the House of Representatives.

According to a Facebook post, Barzaga and Fluss "had a discussion on the possible assistance that the Israeli government could provide to the Philippines in terms of sharing technologies that have made a positive impact to their economy and environment".

The matter is of great import to the veteran solon, since he chairs the House Committee on Natural Resources.

(Facebook)

"At the end of the visit, Ambassador Fluss gifted Cong. Barzaga with a hamsa which is the Israeli symbol for good luck," the post further read.

But the hamsa isn't solely for good luck; it's used for protection by both Jewish and Muslim people. Its name comes from a Semitic root and literally means "five".

Related Tags

Israeli Israel ilan fluss elpidio Barzaga jr. House of Representatives good luck 20923 hamsa

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