Product Description
The Roman Catholic image of the Powerful Hand (Mano Poderosa in Spanish) depicts the right hand of God with fingers and thumb stretched upright. The palm, with its stigmata, faces toward the viewer. The figures that stand at the top of the four fingers represent St. Joseph, the Virgin Mary, and her parents, St. Joachim and St. Anne. The Christ Child is depicted on the thumb.
Often, the hand is shown with small winged cherub-heads floating in the sky above the hand. Sometimes, four female angels kneel beside the hand, gazing upward and bearing the tools of the crucifixion. One of the angels holds a bowl to catch Jesus' blood; another angel holds a spear, a vinegar soaked-sponge, a hammer and nails. A third angel holds a cross and the fourth, a crown of thorns.
This image, the Mano Poderosa is quite popular throughout Mexico, and is often sold on holy cards and votive candles. The meaning of the hand may derive from ancient times as a sign of magical protection and benediction. Historian Carla Wisch explains, "Within popular Catholicism, the Omnipotent Hand symbolizes the all-powerful hand of Christ. With its stigmata, the severed hand evokes the image of Jesus' hand nailed to the Cross.
It most likely evolved from pre-Christian pagan rituals that prophesied the coming of Christ. In Europe it was known as the "Anna Hand," for St. Anne, and was used as a mnemonic device to help the faithful recall the order of prayers and confessions."
Mano Poderosa Prayer: “I place my soul before Thee and in my despair and anguish. Beseech Thee to bring the most powerful strength of Thy Helping Hand to come to my rescue. I place the devotion of my sorrowful heart at Thy feet that I May be pardoned from a destiny of suffering. May the loving kindness of Thy Sacred Heart and the wonders of Thy Powerful Hand help me and give me Strength and wisdom to live in peace and happiness. AMEN.”
Saints are spiritual beings who have been tasked with maintaining this Earth, watching over the affairs of humanity and each has dominion over a portion of nature. Each Saint is identified with natural forces as well as with human interests or endeavors. These Saints are mediators between humanity and the Supreme Being.
Pray to Saints because they are already in heaven, and they can intercede for you. In moments of anxiety, you need to hope and believe in something that helps you recover faith and maintain peace in your life.
Statues are prayed to for seeking love, health, fortune, protection, and to lend their energy while casting spells or during rituals. Establish the psychic link within yourself of spiritual awareness, inner peace, and positive transformation.
Approximately 12"
