2.16.2010

Right Hand - Fidelity

The right hand has in all ages been deemed an important symbol to represent the virtue of fidelity.  Among the ancients, the right hand and fidelity to an obligation were almost deemed synonymous terms.  Thus, among the Romans, the expression fallere dextram, that is to betray the right hand, also signified to violate faith; and jungere dextras, meaning to join right hands, and thereby to give a mutual pledge.  Among the Hebrews, iamin, the right hand, was derived from aman, to be faithful.