Jesus and High Fives: An Unexpected History Behind a Common Gesture

When we think of high fives, most of us picture athletes on a team celebrating victory or friends in the streets sharing a moment of joy. But behind the simple gesture, there is an intriguing and somewhat amusing history that intertwines with one of the most influential figures in history: Jesus Christ. Despite being a troll question at first glance, this topic delves into the cultural and historical context that has echoed through the ages, showing us just how fascinating the origins of our common gestures can be.

The Question Behind the Gesture

The question, "Did Jesus really invent high fives?" might seem like a humorous and nonsensical inquiry, but it opens up a wide range of topics that connect biblical narrations to modern-day hand gestures. While it is highly unlikely that Jesus was the first to have performed a high five, the question challenges us to consider the evolution of hand gestures and their symbolism throughout different cultures and eras.

A Gesture Redefined

The high five, or high hand, is a social gesture of congratulations or encouragement in which one raises one's hand, usually the right, and another person meets it with their own hand from the opposite side. In this form, the two hands physically—and often emphatically—touch to acknowledge the meeting point. However, the act of clashing hands has roots that stretch far beyond the "high" point that we are familiar with today.

Historical Context

The origins of hand-clashing gestures can be traced back to the ancient world, where they served various social functions such as demonstrating equality, making peaceful intentions, or even showing defiance. For instance, in ancient Rome, a gesture known as "saluta" was performed by clapping hands to greet others, promoting a display of camaraderie and goodwill. In medieval Europe, a parody of the greeting gesture, called "salamander", was often used among the lower classes to mock the nobility.

The Biblical Connection

Jesus often used hand gestures to convey his teachings and emotions, although there is no direct mention of high fives in the biblical texts. In the New Testament, the "peace sign" (a raised hand with the index and middle fingers together) was used to symbolize peace and good will, reflecting Jesus's message of nonviolence and unity. Ancient depictions of Jesus often show him giving out blessings or healing with his hand, indirectly illustrating the physical language of the time.

The Modern High Five

The high five, as we know it today, is a relatively modern phenomenon, gaining widespread popularity in the 1980s. In 1981, the New York Mets' pitcher Al Leiter is believed to have coined the gesture as a way to promote team spirit and equality within the sport. Over time, various cultural and social factors contributed to its acceptance and utilization in different contexts, including as a non-verbal way to convey success or celebration.

Interpreting the Gesture Today

Today, high fives are a symbol of camaraderie and celebration in both sports and social situations. They are often used to express excitement, recognition, and shared success. While it is unlikely that Jesus invented the high five, understanding its historical context and evolution helps us appreciate the cultural significance of hand gestures and their lasting impact on human communication.

Conclusion

Although the idea that Jesus invented the high five is a whimsical notion, it prompts us to explore the rich and diverse history of hand gestures. From ancient rituals to modern-day celebrations, these non-verbal forms of communication have played crucial roles in shaping our societies and cultures. So whether you are raising your hand in a high five or enacting a peace sign, remember that these gestures are more than just playful actions; they carry a web of history, symbolism, and the power to connect us all in meaningful ways.