A handshake is a common form of greeting or ritual. We will look into the Spiritual meaning of handshake, shaking hands symbol meaning and dreaming of shaking hands with a dead person. There are numerous theories surrounding its origin and symbolism, ranging from practical considerations to religious and spiritual beliefs. In cultures around the world, a handshake is considered by most to be an essential part of any relationship, building trust and respect, in addition to showing courtesy.
The handshake is an important part of our society. In the business setting, it is always expected that the two persons to shake hands – and it’s rarely a full hand, but a light greeting. Of course, you should not extend your hand first – wait for the other person to do this. The business or social situation is not the only place where people shake hands – they also do so when they meet on the street or are introduced to each other in any social gathering.
The handshake is a phenomenon that has been around for thousands of years, and it’s something that we do almost every day. But have you ever stopped to think about why we do it?
The handshake is one of the oldest forms of greeting someone in a friendly manner, and it has many spiritual meanings. In fact, it dates back to ancient times when people would sometimes use their right hand to grab the left hand of their friends or family members as a way to show that they were trustworthy and loyal.
Today, we still use the handshake as a sign of trustworthiness and honesty, but we also use it when we meet someone new so that they know we mean them no harm. When you shake someone’s hand, it symbolizes trust and friendship. In this exposition you’ll learn shaking hands symbol meaning, and dreaming of shaking hands with a dead person.
Shaking Hands Symbol Meaning
The handshake is a common greeting. It’s used to show respect and to connect with people on a personal level.
The handshake can be used as a method of showing gratitude when someone does something for you. For example, if one of your employees performs well, you can greet them with a handshake to show that you appreciate their hard work.
The handshake is also used as a way to make connections with others. If you are meeting someone for the first time, it’s customary to greet them with a handshake so that they feel welcome and comfortable in your presence.
The handshake is a very common and familiar gesture. It’s used to greet people, say goodbye, or seal a deal.
But there’s more to this seemingly simple act than you might think. The handshake can say a lot about the person who’s offering it, and the person receiving it.
Most importantly, though, it can be an opportunity to connect with someone else in a way that feels meaningful and genuine—and that’s always worth something!
Spiritual Meaning Of Handshake
A handshake is a type of greeting that involves grasping hands followed by a brief up and down movement. Handshakes are used as both a greeting and parting gesture throughout the world.
Handshakes can be an important part of making a first impression. Although it is possible to overcome a poor first impression, it is easier to learn how to avoid some of the typical mistakes that people make when shaking hands.
This article discusses why handshakes are important and when it is appropriate to use this gesture. It also explores some basic guidelines to follow when shaking hands and some bad handshakes you should try to avoid.
Handshakes are more than just a common social gesture; they also hold spiritual significance in many cultures and religions. Here are 4 spiritual meanings of handshakes:
1. Unity and Connection
One of the spiritual meanings of handshakes is the idea of unity and connection. When two people shake hands, they are coming together in a physical gesture that symbolizes their connection on a deeper level. In the Bible, Ecclesiastes 4:12 states, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and working together.
2. Trust and Respect
Another spiritual meaning of handshakes is trust and respect. When someone offers their hand for a handshake, they are extending a gesture of trust and respect towards the other person. In many cultures, the act of shaking hands is a sign of respect for the other person’s presence and a willingness to engage with them in a positive manner.
3. Blessings and Goodwill
Handshakes can also be seen as a way to convey blessings and goodwill. In some cultures, people believe that shaking hands can transfer positive energy and blessings from one person to another. This act of sharing positive energy can create a sense of harmony and peace between individuals.
4. Agreement and Commitment
Finally, handshakes can symbolize agreement and commitment. When two people shake hands on a deal or agreement, they are sealing their commitment to each other. In the Bible, Genesis 31:44-55 tells the story of Jacob and Laban making a covenant with each other by shaking hands and setting up a pillar as a witness to their agreement.
In conclusion, handshakes are not just a common social gesture; they also hold deep spiritual meanings in various cultures and religions. By understanding the significance of handshakes, we can approach this simple gesture with more mindfulness and intention.
Why Handshakes are Important
Handshakes can be a valuable communication tool for making a first impression. These gestures are often exchanged within the context of business or social relationships. They signify a greeting, but they also help inspire feelings of trust and intimacy.
As a result of the global coronavirus pandemic, many people feel hesitant about shaking hands. Experts suggest that if you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, shaking hands is generally considered safe.1
Of course, good hand hygiene is essential no matter what. Be sure to wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
When to Shake Hands
Knowing when to shake hands is also an important part of using this gesture effectively. Handshakes have traditionally been a preferred greeting in a variety of contexts, particularly upon meeting someone for the first time.
The pandemic and the social distancing that accompanied it threw this tradition into a state of limbo. Not only was shaking hands frowned on, but it was also often openly discouraged in many public settings.
While some people have returned to the practice as the pandemic wanes, there are still plenty who are not ready to return to the age-old practice. This can add a layer of complexity when determining when to shake hands. You need to determine if the situation calls for a handshake, you also need to think about whether others will even welcome the greeting.
If you’re not sure if extending your hand is the right move to make, pay attention to the body language of the people you are greeting. When others appear to hesitate, consider easing the awkwardness by simply making another greeting gesture and moving forward with the conversation.
How to Avoid a Handshake
While shaking hands might be a time-honored greeting, not everyone appreciates or wants to participate in this social tradition. Some people might prefer to avoid this type of contact for a variety of reasons, including a desire to limit contact with germs. Some experts have even proposed the idea of handshake-free zones.2
If you want to avoid the need to shake hands, some strategies you might try include:
- Make an excuse: The new era of social distancing has helped make turning down a handshake somewhat easier. You might try simply indicating that you shouldn’t shake hands due to the pandemic. It is a quick way to communicate that you don’t want to engage in this gesture.
- Use another gesture: You might be able to circumvent a handshake by quickly implementing another gesture before the other person reaches out. Fist or elbow bumps are options you might consider. Or you might try just giving a small wave and a smile. Research suggests that bumping fists can be more hygienic than shaking hands.3
Recap
You can preempt a handshake if you are really uncomfortable with it. Strategies you might try include carrying something in both hands or offering a fist bump, elbow tap, or quick wave before the other person reaches out their hand.
Types of Handshakes to Use
Observing some basic guidelines can help you get handshakes right. Handshake grip should be no harder than the strength that you would use to hold a door handle. You should also match your grip to the person you are shaking hands with.
Avoid standing too close when shaking hands. If someone is too close to you, simply take a step back. Unless the other person has you in a vice grip, you should be able to reclaim your personal space.
The ideal handshake lasts two to three seconds and does not go on longer than the verbal introduction. Any longer, and it can seem like you are just holding hands.
If you’re worried about sweaty or clamming hands, try discreetly wiping your palms before you shake hands. For cold hands, you might try warming them up by rubbing them together or keeping an instant heat packet in your pocket.
Bad Handshakes to Avoid
In addition to following some basic advice on how and when to shake hands, there are a few different types of handshakes that you should avoid. Some common “bad” handshakes include:
- Dominant handshake: This involves placing your palm downward when offering your hand to someone and is a form of aggressive communication. By placing your palm downward, you force the other person to place their palm up, a submissive position.
- Bone crusher: Like the dominant handshake, the bone crusher is aggressive and involves an excessively strong grip. If you’ve ever been the recipient of a bone crusher, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Older adults require a looser grip.4
- Double-handed: Although there are instances in which a double-handed handshake is appropriate, if used with someone whom you have just met, it can seem overly personal or intimate. Reserve the double-handed handshake for close friends.
- Too close: The “too close” handshake involves the other person coming in very close to you to shake hands or pulling you in close as you are shaking hands. In either case, the closeness of the handshake is likely to make you feel uncomfortable.5
- Limp fish: Opposite the bone crusher is the limp fish—a limp handshake that signals that you are nervous, uncertain, or uninvolved to the other person. A limp handshake can be particularly detrimental to your career.6
- Fingers only: This handshake only offers your fingers to the other person. To avoid this scenario, be sure that the webbed part of your hand between your pointer finger and thumb is touching the other person’s hand before you tighten your grip.
- Clammy-handed: If you are nervous about introductions, you may have cold, clammy, or sweaty hands in social situations.7
- No eye contact: Not making eye contact during a handshake may signal to the other person that you are not forthcoming.8
- Missed: “The miss” is a handshake that somehow doesn’t come together. While awkward, the other person feels just as responsible, so remember that it was accidental.
- Long handshake: This handshake lasts past the point of introductions and begins to feel awkward and uncomfortable due to its duration.
Dreaming Of Shaking Hands With A Dead Person
This dream symbolizes your wish to reconnect with someone you’ve lost. You may be feeling the need to make amends, or perhaps you’re simply craving a deeper connection with this person. You may also be struggling with letting go of the past and moving on.
You need to take some time for yourself and consider what it is you want in life—and how you can achieve that through your relationships with others.
One possible interpretation of this dream is that it reflects your desire to reconnect with someone who is no longer in your life. This could be a friend, family member, or even a romantic partner. You may be feeling a sense of longing or regret for not having been able to maintain that connection, and the dream is a manifestation of that desire to reconnect.
You May Be Feeling the Need to Make Amends
Another interpretation of this dream is that it is a sign that you are feeling guilty or remorseful about something that happened in your relationship with the person you’ve lost. You may be yearning for the opportunity to make amends and reconcile with them in order to move forward.
You’re Craving a Deeper Connection with This Person
Perhaps the dream is a reflection of your desire for a deeper and more meaningful connection with the person you’ve lost. You may feel like there were unresolved issues or unexpressed emotions in your relationship, and you are longing for the chance to address them and create a deeper bond.
You May Be Struggling with Letting Go of the Past and Moving On
Alternatively, this dream could be a sign that you are having difficulty letting go of the past and moving on from your relationship with the person you’ve lost. You may be stuck in a cycle of nostalgia or regret, and the dream is a reminder that it’s important to let go of the past in order to embrace the future.
Consider What You Want in Life and How You Can Achieve That through Your Relationships
Ultimately, this dream may be a prompt for you to take some time for introspection and reflection. Consider what it is you truly want in life and how your relationships with others can help you achieve those goals. It may be time to reassess your priorities and make conscious efforts to cultivate meaningful connections with the people who matter most to you.
Bible Verse: Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
| Bible Stories | Cultural Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 37-50) | The red string of fate in Chinese culture symbolizes a predetermined connection between two people. |
| The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) | The red thread of fate in Japanese culture represents the bond between soulmates. |